Things To Do
in Balungao
Balungao is a quiet rural municipality in Pangasinan known for its rolling hills and relaxed pace. It sits amid farmland and riverine scenery, offering a glimpse of traditional Philippine countryside life. The town is a gateway to northern Luzon's natural landscape and local culture.
Visitors can enjoy simple charms, friendly locals, and day trips to nearby scenic spots.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Balungao and settle into your accommodation, where you’ll be greeted with warm Filipino hospitality. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring local delicacies, setting the perfect tone for your adventure. Spend the morning exploring the nearby landscapes, taking in the scenic beauty of the rural environment.
After a hearty lunch, visit the Balungao Hilltop, where you can hike up to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Engage with local farmers and learn about their agricultural practices, making for a culturally enriching experience. Cap off the afternoon with a refreshing dip at the nearby hot springs, a perfect way to unwind after your hike.
As dusk settles, enjoy dinner at a local eatery and savor the flavors of traditional Filipino cuisine. Stroll around town to admire the evening ambiance, with friendly locals and vibrant markets coming alive. Wrap up your day by sharing stories with fellow travelers under the stars at your accommodation.
Start your day with breakfast, then head out to visit the Balungao Church, an iconic landmark with deep historical significance. Engage with local guides who can illuminate the rich past of the area, sharing fascinating anecdotes. Spend the latter part of the morning wandering through the town center, where you can shop for local crafts and souvenirs.
After a delightful lunch at a family-run restaurant, embark on a guided tour to the nearby historical sites, including old Spanish-era structures. Take time to snap photographs and appreciate the architecture and history encapsulated in each location. Enjoy some free time at a local park, where you can relax and soak in the tranquil environment.
As night falls, head back to your accommodation for a traditional Filipino dinner. You may also participate in a cooking class, learning to whip up local dishes using fresh ingredients. End your day by sharing your thoughts about the historical journey with new friends around a bonfire.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🚗Local transport (short ride) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-30 |
| 🥤Bottle of water | $0.25-0.60 |
| 🍡Street food snack | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic rural landscapes and friendly locals
- Affordability and relaxed pace of life
- Rich local culture and traditional markets
- Good base for nature excursions
- Limited nightlife and dining options
- Fewer English-speaking services in rural areas
- Less developed public transport
- Occasional road conditions during the rainy season
- "Kumusta po?" - Hello; how are you?
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Salamat po." - Thank you.
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Maaari mo bang tulungan ako?" - Could you help me?
- "Masarap!" - Delicious!
Places to Visit in Balungao
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views over rolling countryside and the town below, especially striking at sunrise and sunset.
Quiet waterside scenes with local fishing activity and reflections of hills, ideal for tranquil compositions.
Historic architecture, colonial influences, and daily life providing human-interest photography opportunities.
Food in Balungao
Balungao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Milkfish prepared in various local styles, such as fried or stewed with tomatoes and herbs; served with rice and local vegetables.
Must-Try!
Fermented fish paste used as a condiment or base for dishes and as a dip with vegetables or fried fish.
A vegetable medley cooked with shrimp paste, featuring squash, eggplant, okra, and bitter melon; a regional staple.
Grilled river or seaside fish seasoned simply with salt, citrus, and local herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Core market where locals buy and sell produce, fish, snacks, and everyday staples; great for observing daily life and trying informal bites.
Small, rotating street vendors offering grilled corn, fried snacks, fresh fruit, and crowd-pleasing treats near the plaza.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet locals warmly with a smile; show respect to elders and use polite terms like 'po' when addressing older people.
Dress modestly and remove hats when inside churches; ask permission before taking photos in sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Balungao
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a small tip (around 5-10% if service charge is not included) is appreciated. For informal service at markets or street stalls, cash tips are common but not required.
Cash (Philippine peso) is the most reliable method in rural towns. Some larger eateries may accept cards or mobile wallets, but cash is safer in rural Balungao.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with hot days and warm nights; ideal for hill walks and outdoor viewpoints. Stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
June to November brings frequent showers and occasional heavy rain; roads can be slick; plan for flexible outdoor plans and potential slower travel.
Balungao at Night
Hiking in Balungao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep but rewarding hike with panoramic views of the surrounding plains and valleys.
Gentle trails along riverbanks offering peaceful scenery and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
Airports
How to reach Balungao by plane.
Major gateway with connections to many Philippine cities; typically reached by road from Pangasinan.
Primary international and domestic hub; longer drive but frequent international flights.
Northern Luzon gateway; farther but serves regional routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A rural Pangasinan community with families engaged in farming, fishing, and small businesses. Pangasinan and Filipino are common languages; Ilocano and Tagalog may also be heard in some households.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in towns across the Philippines, played in schools and community courts.
Common in local gyms and school events; informal competitions are frequent.
Local rivers and ponds support recreational fishing and related activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Balungao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on vegetable dishes and rice; make requests for dishes without shrimp paste or fish sauce, and look for fresh vegetable sides at local eateries.