Overview
The Hinakpan Mystical Hills, also known as the Chocolate Hills of Negros, are a captivating natural attraction located in Hinakpan, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental. Comprising 237 unique conic limestone hills, these mystical landscapes offer stunning panoramic views, hiking and camping opportunities, and serve as a significant pilgrimage site for Catholic visitors. Unlike the evenly spaced Chocolate Hills of Bohol, the Hinakpan Mystical Hills are scattered randomly, enhancing their natural charm and appeal throughout the year with seasonal transformations.
Introduction
Discover the enchanting Hinakpan Mystical Hills of Negros Oriental, a hidden gem that mirrors the famed Chocolate Hills of Bohol with its own unique characteristics. Nestled in the town of Hinakpan within Guihulngan City, this natural wonder boasts 237 conic limestone hills that create a mesmerizing landscape. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an avid hiker, or a religious pilgrim, Hinakpan Mystical Hills offers a diverse array of experiences set against the backdrop of the Philippines’ breathtaking scenery.
Description
The Hinakpan Mystical Hills present a picturesque vista of 237 conic limestone formations scattered across the Hinakpan villages. Unlike the uniform spacing of Bohol’s Chocolate Hills, these hills are randomly distributed, providing a more rugged and natural appearance. Visitors can indulge in activities such as hiking and camping, taking in the expansive views of the surrounding countryside.
One of the standout features of the Hinakpan Mystical Hills is Monte Calvario, a hill transformed into a station of the cross, making it a revered pilgrimage site during Holy Week. The path leads to a prominent crucifix at the hill’s peak, where a viewing deck offers a 360-degree panoramic outlook of the entire area. This site not only serves religious purposes but also attracts tourists for sightseeing, photography, and appreciation of the region’s geographical marvels.
Seasonally, the hills exhibit a striking transformation. During the dry season, the brown grasses cover the hills, giving them a chocolate-like appearance, while the rainy season blankets them in lush greenery. This dynamic change enhances the visual appeal, making Hinakpan Mystical Hills a year-round destination for those seeking both natural beauty and spiritual significance.
Chocolate Hills of Negros, known as Hinakpan Mystical Hills, is a popular destination of Negros Oriental.
This fascinating natural wonder of the Philippines is located in the town of Hinakpan, City of Guihulngan, in the Province of Negros Oriental.
Hinakpan Mystical Hills offer beautiful scenery of 237 conic limestone hills, scattered throughout the villages of Hinakpan.
They are known for their similar appearance to the Chocolate Hills of Bohol, but with a few key differences.
Hinakpan Mystical Hills are not as evenly spaced as the Chocolate Hills of Bohol. They are scattered randomly across the landscape.
They offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and are a great place to go hiking and camping. It is a promising beautiful spot for tourists and nature enthusiasts seeking panoramic views.
Hinakpan Mystical Hills of Negros is also a pilgrimage site for Catholic visitors. One of the hills called Monte Calvario was developed into the station of the cross, giving catholic visitors a chance to do their station of the cross during holy week as they walk towards the peak of Monte Calvarion. The station of the cross ends at the biggest crucifix standing on the center top of Monte Calvario Hill.
Aside from the Big Crucifix on top of the Monte Calvario hill is also a viewing deck where visitors can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the entire scenery. The viewing deck or elevated viewpoints showcases the natural beauty of the Hinakpan Mystical Hills. This spot is popular for sightseeing, photography, and appreciating the geographical features and landmarks of the region.
The significance it holds as a pilgrimage site for religious visitors gives a unique touch to this tourist destination. It’s fascinating to know that one of the hills, called Monte Calvario, has been developed into a station of the cross, providing an opportunity for Catholic visitors to partake in the traditional practice of the Stations of the Cross during Holy Week.
The Stations of the Cross is a devout catholic Christian ritual that commemorates the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It typically consists of 14 stations or stops, each representing a specific event from the Passion of Christ, and is often observed through prayer and meditation as individuals walk the path from one station to another.
Having this religious site at the peak of Monte Calvario hill makes it a unique and spiritually significant destination for those who wish to participate in this devotional practice amidst the natural beauty of the surrounding hills. The presence of the biggest crucifix at the center top adds to the reverence and solemnity of the pilgrimage experience.
If you’re considering visiting Hinakpan Mystical Hills during Holy Week or at any other time, it’s essential to respect the religious significance of the site and be mindful of the practices and customs observed by the local community and fellow visitors. Always approach religious sites with reverence and sensitivity to ensure a meaningful and respectful experience.
If you plan to visit Monte Calvario hilltop or any other similar location, ensure you take necessary precautions and follow local guidelines for visitors. Always prioritize safety and respect the natural environment during your exploration.
Hinakpan Mystical Hills has a similar seasonal transformation to the Chocolate Hills of Bohol. During the summertime, the conic hills are covered with brown grasses, resembling chocolates, which is a striking and unique sight for visitors.
On the other hand, during the rainy seasons, when there is more moisture, the brown grasses likely give way to lush greenery, providing a completely different scenic view. The contrast between the two seasons offers a dynamic and ever-changing landscape, making it an attractive destination for tourists throughout the year.
Experiencing both the brown, chocolate-like appearance and the vibrant green scenery would be an exciting opportunity for visitors to appreciate the natural beauty and diversity of the Hinakpan Mystical Hills. As with any natural phenomenon, the best time to visit depends on personal preferences and the experience you wish to have. Whether it’s the “chocolate” brown hills or the lush green hills, each season offers its own charm and appeal.
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