Balilihan
,Balilihan is a municipality located in the province of Bohol in the Philippines. It is known for its lush forests and scenic natural landscapes. The town has a rich cultural heritage, with historical sites such as the Balilihan Church and the Old Municipal Building.
Residents of Balilihan are known for their warm hospitality and strong sense of community.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Relaxing in Balilihan
morning
:Start your day with a peaceful breakfast at a local café, where you can enjoy traditional Filipino dishes. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque hills for some fresh air and beautiful views.
afternoon
:Visit a nearby artisan market to browse local crafts and souvenirs. Engage with the artisans to learn about their crafts and the culture of Balilihan.
evening
:Savor a delightful dinner at a restaurant that overlooks the sunset. Enjoy the local music and unwind after a day of exploration.
Nature Adventure
morning
:Hike to the top of a nearby hill for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Pack a picnic to enjoy once you reach the summit.
afternoon
:Cool down by visiting a local waterfall where you can swim and relax amidst nature. Spend the afternoon creating memories and taking plenty of photos.
evening
:Return to town and indulge in a traditional Filipino feast with freshly caught seafood. Join a cultural dance presentation to end your day on a high note.
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to urban areas.
- Growing tourism potential, attracting more visitors.
Bad
- Limited access to healthcare facilities.
- Poor infrastructure and road conditions.
- Job opportunities may be scarce, particularly in specialized fields.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters like typhoons.
- Limited access to modern amenities and services.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking at Mount Bandilaan
Experience the stunning views and rich biodiversity of Balilihan by hiking to the peak of Mount Bandilaan, the highest point in Bohol. The trail offers a mix of challenging terrain and beautiful scenery.
Visit the Balilihan Butterfly Sanctuary
Explore the vibrant butterfly sanctuary where you can learn about different species of butterflies and enjoy a peaceful, nature-filled environment.
Eco-Tour at Balilihan Hills
Join an eco-tour to discover the lush landscapes of Balilihan Hills. Activities usually include guided nature walks, bird watching, and photography of the local flora and fauna.
Explore the Hanging Bridge
Cross the picturesque hanging bridge in Balilihan, which offers an exhilarating view of the surrounding landscape and is a great spot for photos.
Mountain Biking
Take advantage of the rough terrains and scenic routes in Balilihan for an exciting mountain biking experience suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Balilihan with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Cadapdapan Rice Terraces
Offers stunning panoramic views of the lush green rice terraces, perfect for photography
Bilar Man-Made Forest
Famous for its scenic beauty and picturesque photo opportunities amidst a dense forest of mahogany trees
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lumpia
A Filipino-style spring roll typically filled with minced meat, vegetables, and served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce. Must-try at the local eateries or at the town's food stalls.
Must-Try!
Lechon Baboy
A standout local delicacy, Lechon Baboy is succulent roasted pig known for its crispy skin and flavorfully seasoned meat. Best enjoyed at community fiestas and special family gatherings.
Sinuglaw
A popular dish featuring a combination of grilled pork belly and fresh fish ceviche, marinated in vinegar and spices. Typically found at traditional eateries and beachside food shacks.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Balilihan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Balilihan Public Market
A bustling market offering an array of fresh produce, seafood, and local snacks. Visitors can enjoy street food such as grilled fish, skewered barbecues, and tropical fruit shakes from nearby vendors.
Bulad (Dried Fish) Vendors
Along the main roads, travelers can experience the distinct aroma of dried fish (bulad). These vendors sell an assortment of sun-dried seafood, including squid, danggit, and pusit, which are best paired with steamed rice and local vinegar.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly
When visiting Balilihan, it is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local communities. Wearing clothing that covers shoulders and knees is encouraged to show respect for local customs.
Use polite language
Always use polite language and greetings when interacting with locals. A simple ‘po’ and ‘opo’ can be added to show respect, especially when speaking to elders.
Respect local customs
Be mindful of local traditions and customs, such as participating in community events or festivals respectfully. It's important to ask for permission before taking photos of locals or their property.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Balilihan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Balilihan, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is more common in tourist areas and among service workers in the hospitality industry. The amount can vary, but a small percentage of the bill or rounding up the total is common practice. In restaurants, leaving a tip of around 10% is considered generous.
Payment
Payment practices in Balilihan typically involve cash transactions, as many places may not have credit card facilities. However, in more developed areas and for larger purchases, credit and debit cards may be accepted. It's common for local markets and smaller businesses to prefer cash only. Mobile payment options have also begun to gain popularity, especially among younger populations.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Balilihan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season (November to April)
The best time to visit Balilihan is during the dry season, from November to April. During this time, you can expect hot and sunny weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Wet season (May to October)
The wet season in Balilihan occurs from May to October, and during this time, you can expect heavy rain and humid conditions. While the landscape is lush and green, outdoor activities may be limited due to the rainfall.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Mount Kan-irag
A challenging trek offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The trail is lush with native flora and is ideal for experienced hikers.
Mount Samat
Known for its historical significance, this spot provides a moderate hiking trail leading to a serene environment and beautiful views from the summit.
Kalunasan Trail
A relatively easy hike that winds through forested areas, perfect for families and casual hikers looking to enjoy nature.
Sierra Bulls Trail
A more secluded trail that offers a mix of challenging sections and easier paths, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned hikers.
Bohol's Chocolate Hills Viewpoint
While primarily known for its geological formations, there are hiking paths leading to viewpoints that provide stunning vistas of the unique landscape.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Balilihan through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Balilihan by plane.
Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB)
Located approximately 80 kilometers northeast of Balilihan, this airport serves the Cebu region and is a major gateway to the Central Visayas.
Bohol-Panglao International Airport (TAG)
Situated about 20 kilometers southwest of Balilihan, this airport serves the province of Bohol and offers both domestic and international flights.
Kalibo International Airport (KLO)
About 200 kilometers northwest of Balilihan, this airport serves the province of Aklan and caters to international travelers, particularly those flying to Boracay.
Iloilo International Airport (ILO)
Located approximately 250 kilometers west of Balilihan, this airport services the Iloilo region and has both domestic and international flights.
Clark International Airport (CRK)
Around 750 kilometers northwest of Balilihan, this airport serves the Clark Freeport Zone and Manila's northern suburbs, offering multiple international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Tagolog
Tagolog speakers are among the prominent demographic groups in Balilihan, known for their rich cultural heritage and substantial population.
Visayan
The Visayan demographic is significant in Balilihan, contributing to the local language, traditions, and community activities.
Cebuano
Cebuano speakers represent a notable part of the population in Balilihan, influencing the local dialect and customs.
Others
This group includes various smaller ethnic communities and migrants that contribute to the diversity of Balilihan.
The Soul of Balilihan
Discover the essence of Balilihan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball
Basketball is extremely popular in the Philippines, including Balilihan, with local leagues and tournaments often held in community courts.
Volleyball
Volleyball is favored among both men and women in Balilihan, often played in schools and local events.
Tennis
Tennis has a growing following in Balilihan, with several courts available for public use and local competitions.
Badminton
Badminton is played recreationally in Balilihan, with many players enjoying this sport in barangay levels and community centers.
Sepak Takraw
Sepak Takraw is a traditional sport that is popular in Balilihan, showcasing skills in kicking a rattan ball over a net.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While Balilihan’s cuisine is meat-centric, some local eateries offer vegetable-based dishes like pinakbet (mixed vegetable stew) and ginataang langka (jackfruit in coconut milk). Visitors can also find vegetarian-friendly options at seafood restaurants.
Gluten-Free Choices
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy fresh seafood and tropical fruits, which are prevalent in Balilihan’s culinary scene. It's advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly to ensure safe and enjoyable dining experiences.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Balilihan with these cultural adventures.