The Grandeur of Bomod-ok Falls

Big Falls
Originally uploaded by RyanG.

Let's have a picnic at Bomod-ok Falls!

After taking our breakfast from a local pancake house within the Sagada town proper, our group decided to embark on our next target, the Bomod-ok Falls. Bringing along our packed lunch, bathing suits and towels, we rented a jeepney inclusive of a tour guide that will bring us approximately five kilometers away in the town of Banga-an, where the falls, popularly known as "Big Falls" because of its enormous size, is located.

It took our group almost two hour to trek down the mountain (with a height equivalent to two-28 storey buildings) and hike through the rice fields. Hearing the sound of flowing water as we approach our destination is like sweet music to our ears. From afar, we could already see traces of mist that was carried by the strong air current through the mountains covering Big Falls.

The grandeur of Bomod-ok Falls - what a site to behold! Enclosed by two mountains, the falls is approximately 300-ft. high. No one among us dared to go to the pool directly beneath the falls, except for my friend, Dexter, who actually went up to the mid level and jumped off straight into the bottomless basin. It was such a crazy act - nevertheless, it was an unforgettable experience for Dexter.



There was a smaller pool surrounded by large rocks connecting the fall's basin with the rapid rivers flowing down through the other parts of the Banga-an valley. In both case, they have viciously frigid running water.



We had a pleasant time bathing, eating our lunch, and relaxing until we started our hike back. I was also surprised to see young Sagada, probably aged 9 to 12, swimming and diving in Bomod-ok. The falls is one big playground for these kids, which I quite envy because you'll never have this kind of fun and access to such great wonder back in the city (or anywhere near Manila even).

Walking and climbing back to Banga-an is yet another arduous task. We have no choice since our jeepney taking us back to the Sagada is waiting for us up there.

Before entering the town proper, we stopped by the Echo Valley for some drinks and pictures amidst the exotic flowers of the garden. We decided not to go up to the Hanging Coffins also located at Echo Valley since we were all beat from our Big Falls trudge.

This was our last afternoon in Sagada. We shall be leaving for Baguio the next morning. But I have still time for one more exploit before the sun goes down - souvenir-hunting, Sagada style!