Tourist Spots in Canlaon
The tourist spots in Canlaon are all natural. While the Kanlaon volcano is of course the major attraction of the entire region, there are some beautiful spots to explore.
Kanlaon Volcano
Mount Kanlaon raises majestically on the border of Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental. With an elevation of 2,435 m Kanlaon Volcano is the highest mountain not only of the Negros, but of the whole Visayas. The volcano is also the largest active volcano of the Philippines. It’s activity is frequently monitored.
The name originated from the ancient Visayan god Kan-Laon (The Supreme Ruler – One Who Is the Ruler of Time) which was worshiped by the locals in the pre-spanish era. Mount Kanlaon attracts mountain climbers and serious hikers from all over the world. Before one can climb the volcano a permit need to be secured with the Canlaon Tourism Office. The climb need to planned ahead of time with the required paperwork being submitted to the office at least one month before the hike. For your own safety you will be only allowed to climb the mountain with a professional guide.
Mt. Canlaon – Aerial Video
Balete Tree
Century old Balete tree – also known with the local name Dalakit tree- is another pride of Canlon. It is the oldest as well as biggest tree in Negros Oriental, so we were told. The tree in barangay Lumabao has become the biggest attraction of the city. Botanists of Silliman University estimate the age of the tree with over 1,300 years.Visitors might find quite some similarities between this huge 60 meter high tree and the “Home Tree” in Jame Cameron’s “Avatar“.
The Balete tree stands in the middle of rice terraces and coffee plantations. The grounds are privat owned but local government supported. Four cottages are available free of charge on a first come-first serve basis. There are public comfort rooms available.
The place is best for educational tours, picnic, wedding receptions or any celebrations, as it has electricity and good water supplies. Better bring your own food and drinks if you wish to stay longer. There is no restaurant around but some small booth selling soft drinks and bottled water.
Tourists might go there via Habal-Habal. The driver may ask up to 150 peso for the trip to the Balete Tree. The way there goes also through a man-made line-up of eucalyptus trees.
Tourist Spots and Attraction in Canlaon City
Padudusan Falls and Water Slide
Another Canlaon Tourist Spot is the Padudusan Falls and its natural water slide. Located in barangay Masulog, just at the foot of Mount Canlaon, it take 25 mins ride habal habal from city proper and another 10 minutes walk. There is an old bridge where people can walk, and a newer bridge where motorbikes are safe to cross. It is an accessible place with no entrance fee and is a local favorite.
There are a few cottages available nearby and plenty of space on the big rocks around to have a nice picnic in the shades of trees. Padudusan Falls is a natural gift to the neighboring native houses and people of this area. Its crystal clear drinkable water from Mount Kanlaon is inviting. Once can have a refreshing dump in the small round pool. Local and foreign visitors find the resident Canlaonians very friendly; showing great hospitality to their guests.
Known as the “Vegetable Basket of Negros Oriental” Canlaon City takes pride in planting different vegetables, fruits and crops. The Rice and Veggie Terraces can be seen all over Canlaon.
If you are looking for an adventure, visit the Canlaon Suludnon Fall. It is almost a hidden waterfall, where visitors need to hike in order to reach its refreshing waters. Nevertheless, it is still a favorite by both locals and tourists. The area have big rocks where people can enjoy a nice picnic after swimming.
