Minalungao National Park

I have never heard this place until I got an invitation for a quick escape from Manila. I googled it and found out that this is a hidden gem in Nueva Ecija. No wonder why the slots for this trip is full. We left Manila around 430 am. Then after more than 2 hours, we arrived at this place. 

Before we hit this place we were lost and found our way to the long and rocky road. We decided to make a U turn and take the smooth road. There is a gate before you enter the vicinity. You will see children wearing violet top and red pants and they will ask you to pay the entrance fee of 20 pesos per person and another entrance for the vehicle which is 50 pesos.

Good thing we arrived very early as we had the chance to choose the cottage and the raft. We got a deal of 600 pesos for both unlimited use till we leave the place.

Our guide Kristoffer and Adam, does the rowing. We went to the other side of the lake to see the 1000 steps leading to the cross. The stairs makes it easier for us to climb but the heat of the sun is killing us but still we made it to the top.

The ashes of a Korean Missionary was laid to rest here as his request.

We went down easily. Half of the group went ahead of us going to the cave. We waited for our raft to bring us to the cave. While waiting we did our photo ops.

The entrance to the cave. With no headlamp or flash light we still decided to go inside the cave. There is nothing special in this cave. The guide didn't even know that they should hands off the stalactites and stalagmites. A lot of vandalism is happening in here. Sad :(

Then we joined the group as they refresh in the cool water of the river.

This is a perfect point to cliff jump. I did twice. Others do their stunts too.

Our lunch...

After the food was gone. I felt sleepy. I think I had a quick nap for about 15 minutes. Others chat, change cloths and tried to think of other place to go. The place becomes a picnic ground. There are more groups coming. We decided to leave.