2025 Nueva Ecija Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

#timetotravel If you don't have an experience of climbing then Mount 387 Batong Amat is the perfect mountain for you to trek. Totally great for beginners. Hikers are curious why it is named Mt 387 and according to our guide it is named after its size which is 387 hectares of the Talavera Watershed Forest Reserve. Local guides are very accommodating too. This is located in Barangay Puncan, Carangalan, Nueva Ecija. From Metro Manila, ride a long distance bus going to San Jose City which is 374 km north and the travel time is around 4 hours. From there, take a tricycle going to the jump off point of Moung 387. It will take you around 30 minutes. Enjoy your hike! #tripblazers #mytripvlog #philippines #hiking #trekking #mountainview

🌿 **Introduction** Tired of crowded tourist spots? Venture off the beaten path to **Puncan**, a serene barangay in Carranglan, Nueva Ecija, where nature’s secrets await! Tucked in the foothills of the Sierra Madre mountain range, Puncan is home to the mystical **Mount 387** and the enchanting **Aloha Falls** 🌄💧—perfect for adventurers craving raw, untouched beauty. --- ### **🌳 Mount 387: A Hiker’s Hidden Paradise** **Why Visit?** - **Beginner-Friendly Trek**: At **387 meters above sea level**, this mountain offers a short but rewarding hike (2–3 hours roundtrip) through lush forests and grassy ridges. - **Panoramic Views**: Reach the summit for sweeping vistas of Nueva Ecija’s rolling hills and the winding **Digdig River** 🌾. - **Cultural Touch**: Meet local farmers along the trail and learn about their sustainable livelihoods. **How to Get There** 1. **From Manila**: Take a bus to **Cabanatuan City** (3–4 hours). 2. **To Puncan**: Ride a jeepney or tricycle to Puncan (1 hour). Local guides can lead you to the trailhead. **Tips** - Start early to avoid midday heat. - Wear sturdy shoes – the trail can be slippery after rain. - Pack water and snacks – no stores on the trail! --- ### **💦 Aloha Falls: Puncan’s Refreshing Secret** **Why Visit?** - **Hidden Oasis**: A multi-tiered waterfall with crystal-clear pools ideal for swimming and cliff-jumping. - **Jungle Vibes**: Surrounded by thick foliage and moss-covered rocks, it feels like a scene from *Jurassic Park* 🦖🍃. - **Local Lore**: Some say the falls got its name from the “aloha spirit” of visitors who leave feeling rejuvenated. **How to Get There** - From Puncan’s town center, hire a tricycle or hike (30–45 mins) through scenic farmlands and streams. **Tips** - Visit during the rainy season (June–Oct) for stronger water flow. - Bring a waterproof bag for gadgets. - Respect the environment – carry out trash! --- ### **🚙 Travel Guide: Manila to Puncan** 1. **By Private Car**: Drive via NLEX → SCTEX → TPLEX → Sta. Rosa Exit → Carranglan (4–5 hours). 2. **By Public Transport**: - Bus to Cabanatuan (Victory Liner/Genesis). - Jeepney/tricycle to Puncan (ask for Mount 387 or Aloha Falls drop-off). --- 🌟 **Why Puncan?** - **Escape the Crowds**: No entrance fees, no queues – just pure nature! - **Affordable Adventure**: Budget-friendly guides and homestays. - **Local Flavors**: Try *carabao milk* sweets and *pinakbet* (vegetable stew) from nearby eateries. --- 🌤️ **Best Time to Visit** - **Dry Season** (Nov–May): Ideal for hiking and clear waterfall photos. - **Rainy Season** (Jun–Oct): Lush greenery and stronger falls, but trails may be muddy. --- 🗺️ **Sample Itinerary** - **Day 1**: Arrive in Puncan → Hike Mount 387 → Sunset at the summit. - **Day 2**: Trek to Aloha Falls → Swim and picnic → Return to Manila.

very sweet dog iloveyou🥰❤️

#catholic_church

Unwinding and recharging amidst breathtaking scenery. This trip was exactly what I needed. Pure bliss! ✨😌

#songkran2024