Paradise Philippines Information Blog features: CordilleraThe mighty Cordillera mountain ranges are home to diverse cultural minorities and some of the Paradise Philippines' most beautiful landscapes. Ifugao is known for its Banaue Rice Terraces. Considered as the eight wonder of the world, the terraces are believed to be over 2,000 years old. However, many are in danger of being abandoned since younger Ifugaos have been lured to other, more financially-rewarding occupations.
The Banaue Museum houses a collection of Ifugao artifacts, while Taman Village near the Viewpoint is a good place to buy arts and crafts. Other panoramic terraces can be found in Batad, Hungduan, Hapao, Kiangan and Mayoyao.
In the capital of Lagawe are the multi-chambered Natoban and Bintacan Caves. The War Memorial Shrine in Kiangan recalls World War II battles in the area. Hungduan is the site of the last stand of the infamous Japanese Imperial Army figure, General Yamashita.
Mountain Province is the traditional home of the Bontoc Igorots. Its best-kept secret is Sagada, an astonishingly beautiful community of pine forests, mist-covered slopes, stone-walled terraces, limestone outcrops, burial caves and tribal culture. Its famous hanging coffins can be found in nearby cliffs.
The road to capital of Bontoc features dense forest and terraces planted to rice and vegetables. The Bontoc Museum has excellent cultural collections. Other attractions include pine and oak forests on Mount Data; rice terraces in Natonin and Maglicong (the latter set in natural amphitheater); and hotsprings in Mainit.