My first-ever post about Sagada is entitled "Where do broken hearts go?" and today, I'll be giving you the answer to that. So, saan nga ba?
If you happen to be a Filipino, I bet you already know the answer to this question. Otherwise, read on and discover why Sagada became the go-to spot for those who are moving on or should I say, trying to move on.
Sagada has always been known for its cold weather, the well-preserved culture and tradition but I didn't know Kiltepan Peak exists not until "That Thing Called Tadhana" (That Thing Called Destiny), a Filipino romantic comedy film selected Sagada, specifically, Kiltepan Peak as one of its locations. The movie premiered in 2014 and since then, Kiltepan was all over the internet. I remember a time when hundreds of tourists flocked to the area over the weekend leaving Kiltepan overcrowded. Want to know what particular part of the movie captured moviegoers' hearts? Perhaps, this scene.
You have to click that link and watch how the movie beautifully captured Kiltepan Peak. I mean if this heavenly place exists in the physical world, why not visit it? Luckily, it's not just the green screens or high-tech film techniques, it's real. I would be lying if I say I'm not of those who dreamed of going to Sagada when the movie was a thing in the Philippines. In fact, Grace and I made sure that we won't miss the early morning amusement at Kiltepan.
If like me, you aren't a morning person, you might want to skip Kiltepan Peak altogether but I tell you, it's worth the early morning rise. As early as 3:30 am, Grace and I were up and took the coldest hot bath we had in our lives (take note, we were using heaters but it was still freaking cold!). Past 4 am, the monster jeep picked us up for a journey farther up North of Sagada. I didn't dare to sit on top of the jeep; there was nothing to see except occasional extraterrestrial sightings. LOL! Just kidding! 😂 It's already cold in Sagada at daytime; now imagine if you're traveling there at dawn! Bring those jackets, bring many of them!
You might be wondering why bother to wake up early, the peak won't leave, right? That is right but you have to be there before sunrise or you will miss Mother Nature's finest show. A sea of clouds form before sunrise and they usually clear out when the sun is up. You can go back to sleep later in the day.
If you've been here, how was your experience? Ours wasn't the most ideal; it was drizzling the entire time we were there and sadly the sun never showed up. Nonetheless, we enjoyed the time in Kiltepan with our newfound friends.