Some of the little things which brought sheer bliss to me, that I won't get tired of doing in the countryside is climbing to this certain peak of the mountain almost every year, the mountain that felt my own, my hometown's awe-inspiring Tindog- Bato Peak.
I've been climbing this mountain for times I could no longer count and yet I always feel the same satisfaction and contentment every time I reach its top. Because of this, I shared this paradise and invited some of my friends, classmates, and later on, my students to climb and see before their eyes the breathtaking views that Tindog- Bato Peak has offered.
TINDOG-BATO PEAK
Tindog which means "Stand" and Bato which means "Rock", if combined, the Peak's name is the perfect description of this giant mighty rock standing on top of the mountain like a KING watching his Kingdom. The rock stood prominently atop the mountain which is surrounded at 360 degrees by lush foliage below, thus it gets the name "Tindog-Bato" Peak. Well some locals call this Peak Liog-liog, but I love the sound of "Tindog -Bato".
My first few climbs on this mountain were the times I do not have a Camera yet, so I didn't have the proof to show the world how magnificent the mountain was, however, its serenity and splendid views were forever stored in the galleries of my mind and heart. So imagine how happy I am to finally come back to this mountain together with my newly found hiking buddies and to finally be able to share the magnificence of Tindog Bato Peak on my blog!
The hike begins,
I was as excited as a young man who was about to see his maiden when we were nearing the mountain. It was just a lovely day to have this long hike. The sight of the mountain that was gleaming brilliantly under the sun added fuel to my excitement. I was more than ready to climb to the top and savor all of its refreshing and beautiful views.
Warm welcome!
As we started ascending the welcome signs greeted us. I was surprised to see them as they were not here before. This is a good sign of development which I think was done by the Local Tourism Office of the Barangay. The mountain must be attracting nature lovers and mountain climbers over time.
We started our hike with caution while I also observed the path to check if there were changes or some development.
The Rock Show!
Ascending the mountain in the middle of this lush vegetation is a challenging one. Though the path was very refreshing because of the green colors of the surroundings and the soft touch of the wind's breeze that gently embraces us every time we took our step going up but we have to keep our eyes on the ground as the path is filled with marvelous rock formations.
The rocks seemed to be having their exhibition as they boasted an array of diverse formations and sizes in every path we passed!
They come in gray and black colors and appeared very solid. Most of the rocks have holes in them which vary in their unique sizes and designs!
Some rocks are also smooth and plain and we need to crawl.
Pause and Breathe
The rocks covering the steep path made our climb challenging. So in between our climbs, I made sure to take a stop, breathe and look at the view to see what have I gone so far.
It felt good to take those stops and regain my breath. This also reminds me that in life I have to take breaks and sometimes slow down to regain strength and appreciate what I have done and overcome.
The Captivating Tindog-Bato Peak!
After two hours of climbing and grasping tightly those rocks we finally arrived at the top!
And there, unfold before my eyes the Mighty Rock, the king of all the rocks that we passed, the peak of Tindog-Bato! It stood proudly and firmly inviting us to climb on it.
We climb going to the rocks carefully. One mistake in our steps could send us tumbling down below. And since I keep coming back to this peak, I somehow familiarize the rock formation and even the course of the wind on top.
Aside from the steep rock we also need to be careful in holding and sitting the rock because of its sharp and uneven edges. But once you settled in and find your comfort on the peak, you will find yourself held captive by its awe-inspiring overlooking view!
The Breathtaking Panoramic View!
Amidst the majestic peak, the overlooking view on top of Tindog Bato will definitely leave someone speechless. The green landscapes that extend as far as our eyes could see were soothing and fulfilling.
Sitting on top and indulging myself in this grand nature in front of my eyes made me so grateful for life. It made me contemplate, reflect and have a deep appreciation of everything.
I felt very blessed to be surrounded by these beauties. I could sit there for who cares how long.
I also remember how my dreams and goals in life change every time I sit at this peak. If only the mountain could hear my heart's desire it would probably congratulate me on the small and big successes I have in life that once I only wished for and utter while I was on this peak.
So I and my co-teachers sat at the peak for I do not know how long. The whole experience was humbling, fulfilling, and invigorating.
That's it for our fulfilling climb at Tindog-Bato Peak. I hope you enjoyed reading it. Thank you so much. I wish you all safe and well always.
Don't forget to smile often!😍😊🤗
