The Philippine’s Banaue Rice Terraces are literally terraces carved into the Ifugao mountains by the indigenous people’s ancestors. Mountain faces are covered with rice fields ingeniously designed to look like stairways. This allowed each and every rice field the proper amount of water through an ancient irrigation system from the above rainforests.
Still present today, this engineering feat has stood the test of time at 2,000 years old. The most amazing fact and history about the rice terraces is that it was built with almost no equipment; their hands were the main tools. And to this day, Ifugaos still farm on these terraces, but sadly the younger generation does’nt take it to their liking and look someplace else for their future. Due to this, some signature steps have eroded and now need constant maintenance and repairs.
Credit: top-destination-choice-the-philippines.com
The only way to get up there is through a 10 hour bus ride from Manila which is available every day. We suggest that you go at least two months before their only harvest period during the year, which is February or March, because that’s when the rice terraces are at their greenest. The only kind of rice planted here is the Tinawon Rice, you can even have some if you ask.
You don’t need to hike or have an amazing picnic just to appreciate the spectacular view. Although you can partake in them, a lot of guided tours are always available. The Banaue Rice Terraces is a marvel to behold with its history, endurance and appearance. Reasons why Filipinos call it the Eighth Wonder of the World.
