Batad Rice Terraces is one among the five terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras inscribed in the UNESCO World heritage. Built around 2,000 years ago, this breathtaking site is a must see when you are travelling to the Philippines.
Located 18 km. (mi) from Banaue, Batad, home of the breathtaking Batad Rice Terraces is 1 hour and 30 minute tricycle ride to Batad junction.
Captured this wonderful moment of a group of friends while I was on a tricycle back ride to Batad Saddle
Alternatively, you can take jeepneys from Banaue to Batad junction. Note that the Batad junction is the farthest place motorized vehicles can reach. From junction, one must trek 3 km downhill to reach the place they call as Batad Saddle.
The trek from the Batad saddle to the viewing deck is quite challenging for first time trekkers and to those who are unfit (I’m guilty of this.lol). The trek includes countless downhill steps and steep paths. Needless to say, the uphill trek going back to the Saddle from the terraces is more challenging. It took us an hour to reach Batad town proper from the Batad Junction.
There are parts of the trail with cemented pathways
Downhill path to Batad proper
Unfortunately, I was unable to take photos of the challenging trails from the saddle to the Batad town proper. I was very grateful during the trek as my Banaue travel buddy – Jana and our tour guide Martin were very supportive.
Upon reaching the Batad town proper, tourists must register and pay 50 pesos environmental fee.
The majestic amphitheater-like Batad Rice Terraces
Short video of the Batad Rice Terraces from viewing deck
Selfie with the beautiful Batad Rice Terraces
Viewing deck
Despite the grueling trek, seeing the postcard perfect view of the Batad Rice Terraces is such a relief. There is a viewing area where tourists can simply relax and take photos of the breathtaking rice terraces.
Getting Around Batad
There are no vehicles in Batad. Getting around means trekking and walking around in this beautiful town.
Martin, our tour guide and Jana
Green is relaxing
Rice Terraces is also known as “Hagdan hagdang Palayan” in Filipino
There are lodges in the area if you want to spend the night in this magnificent place. Most of the lodges are situated where guests can enjoy the perfect view of Batad Rice Terraces. Since there are no cellular signal in Batad, this is the perfect place to those who would like disconnect and reflect.
After enjoying the breathtaking views of Batad Rice Terraces, we trekked from the viewing deck to Tappiya falls.