The Wang-Od Experience: Trailing to Buscalan, Tinglayan
The beautiful scenery is startling, the weather is temperate and the climb is a struggle. My friend invited me to join him travel to see Wang-od. I didn't hesitate and immediately accepted his offer, it's holidays anyways and I have spare money for good intent.
At 7:30 A.M. we went to the terminal near Dangwa station at Bulanao, Tabuk, Kalinga and wait for available van going to Buscalan. At around 8 o'clock the van has reached its capacity and off we go. The road is not rough, it's perfect for adventure. You are refreshed with trees and mountains surrounding you. It's a pollution-free, stress-relieving travel. Looking by the car's window, you could see several rice terraces, rivers, mountain ranges and other exotic spots.Two hours of travel and you are now at Buscalan.
At around 10 AM, we have already reached our destination. Local tour guides are readily available at your disposal; a minimal fee is collected. If you are a foreigner, you don't even have to worry because these guides can understand and speak English. The tour guide will instruct you of what to expect along the way. Upon making an initial impression, we have built a connection with the guide. So the expedition starts. We rode in a motorcycle transporting us to a very high area several meters above sea level. Upon reaching the bridge under construction we walked 400 meters and then was instructed to wait for another motorcycle. The ride is breath-taking (as if you are in a motorcade), imagine riding in a roller coaster. Motorcycles are plenty and you just have to wait for few minutes. Ride again in a roller coaster and voila you are now ready to trek several mountains by foot.
Sunblock is your best friend in your travel, you have to bring one. You will be walking up and up the mountain for more than an hour with the sun above you. In your way, you will be amazed with the beauty of nature. How glorious it is to see trees; feel like your touching the clouds; listen to the music of nature; fly like an eagle; get connected with a Higher Being, meditate. You will also appreciate waterfalls (although not much to see) as you pass by.
This exercise is superbly good for the heart. You will sweat, breath deeply and burn calories. Enjoy your walk with the amazing view. After the long walk, you should have reached a village where Wang-od reside. Total population is estimated at 1,200 statistically speaking. The indigenous people residing in the area are kind, hospitable, honest and understanding. So long as you have your tour guide, everything is settled.
We stayed there for a night; had our tattoos in our body, had fun, met new friends, enjoyed the view and above all, experienced God in His wonderful creations.
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