Hidden high up in the mountain ranges of the Negros Island, southern Philippines, are brown mounds that are scattered all over an expansive land. These are the Hinakpan Mystical Hills or the Chocolate Hills of Negros Oriental, located in Brgy. Hinakpan, Municipality of Guihulngan, province Negros Oriental. It is a must-see for Catholics and those who want to reconnect with nature. Some online reports say there are about 237 rolling hills in the area, beautiful and ethereal, and these comprise the awe-inspiring Hinakpan Mystical Hills.
The Hinakpan Mystical Hills
We are from Bacolod City, Negros Occidental and we stayed at the White Chocolate Hills Beach Resort in Zamboanguita, Negros Oriental for 3 nights. Separated by a mountain range, this town is located on the other side of our sock-shaped island but it takes about a 6-hour straight drive.
On our drive back, we decided to take another route up north from Zamboanguita and cut through the mountains via the Guihulngan-Isabela Road. It’s supposed to be a shortcut connecting both provinces midland.
Along the way, there is a small dirt road that leads to the Hinakpan Mystical Hills–hundreds of hills strewn all over the valleys.
The road is narrow and some parts are not paved, which is why most visitors take motorcycles. But our SUV was able to get through– hubby just drove slowly and carefully. It was just right though, as we were able to enjoy the cool and fresh mountain breeze and verdant scenery around us.
The Monte Calvario at Hinakpan Mystical Hills
After several kilometers, we saw a hut with a sign Hinakpan Information Center and parking area, so we stopped. Then we saw a guy on a hill above us so we just asked about where to view the hills. He said that he had to go all the way up the hill for a 360-degree view of the area. The climb was approximately 132 steps, he said.
The trail was a path for the Way of the Cross, so we stopped at each cross and read the inscriptions while marvelling at the artwork. At the top is the biggest white cross, signifying the end of the climb. This cross is visible for miles — standing tall like a beacon of hope.
Looking down from one side, the girls pointed out that there was a Catholic church nestled in a valley. It was a big church with a multi-purpose hall but I couldn’t seem to find the name of the church anywhere and we also forgot to ask the gatekeeper.
It was a short but beautiful trip. While we first intended to just see this side of the island, we were refreshed and reminded of God’s magnificence. What a way to cap the Holy Week!
Location
Hinakpan Mystical Hills
Brgy. Hinakpan, Guihulngan,
Negros Oriental, Philippines, 6214
The area is open everyday and entrance is free. You just have to sign on a visitor’s logbook by the gate. There is a donation box, too, which I believe is for the church and the upkeep of the area. You may also want to extend a love gift to the gatekeeper, too.
Please remember: Only take photos and DO NOT LEAVE TRASH BEHIND. Please help in preserving the area, too. Observe CLAYGO.
