Treasure Mountain in Tanay Rizal

Sea of clouds ba 'kamo? Well you don't need to go up north to witness it. Just a mere 2-hours away from Manila with no hiking and no fuss, you can experience it here in one of Tanay Rizal surreal spot. If you are so stressed out and need a break, want to have some adventure or just want to chill then you will definitely have a great time here.

How To Get There
It was weekend (Sunday) when we get there and as much as I want to do a DIY kind of adventure, I opted to join a Day-tour for a hassle free travel. From Cubao, the driver picked us up at around 3:30am and directly took us to treasure mountain. I had a peaceful slumber for most half of the trip but later on got bothered by the bumpy rides along. It took less than 2 hours to get there and the place is already packed by the time we arrived at around 5:30am.

For those who are commuting, there are vans and jeepneys coming from Cubao or Katipunan Avenue going to Cogeo, get off at Cogeo Gate 2 or Padilla then ride a jeepney going to Sampaloc, Tanay. Then, ride a jeepney bound to Sampaloc, (Note that the last trip of jeepneys bound to Sampaloc is 5-6 pm. Get off at Sitio Maysawa waiting shed or the jump-off to the Maysawa Circuit . From there, you can choose to walk to Treasure Mountain or ride a tricycle to get there.

Attractions & Things to do

Catch the Sunrise
Witness a spectacular array of colors during the sunrise as it peeks above the mountains and seeps through the thick sea of clouds. For me, it is one of the best sunrise views worth catching for. Moments that makes you realize how beautiful the world is and make you grateful as you enjoy the serenity of morning surrounded by pure nature. Indeed the joys of living and experiencing God's creation.

Sea of Clouds
The most wanted sea of clouds, yep you can see it here. It is a good thing that we came here during rainy season so the chance of it appearing is high. No need to actually go to Mt. Pulag or Mt. Ulap just for the site (if you are just into views), no hike and fuss but real sea of clouds. Indulge yourself to take as much photos as you want as the thick gray moving clouds as your backdrop.

Spider-Web Obstacle Course
Have you been to Masungi or wished to go there but haven't really got the chance? Well, the spider web obstacle course is the closest thing you can have here in Treasure Mountain. And obstacle course to climb on made of ropes and steels with different stations and level of difficulty. Want to conquer your fear of heights or unleash your spider-man moves, make sure to be up for the challenge because this activity is only meant for you to have a lot of play and fun.

Kawa Bath
A relaxing Kawa bath is one that you cant miss here. You don't have to go to Antique or anywhere in the Philippines, you can readily experience it here in Tanay. Be prepared to be cooked alive in a big "kawa" seasoned with colorful flower petals while enjoying the warm water and tranquil views. Take note though, it literally burned my bum but it was worth the try, plus it is therapeutic and instagram-worthy so I don't really mind. :D

Camping
Camping is great for those who want to stay overnight, for families or group friends who wants to experience outdoor but with a little added comfort. Tent-pitching and staying at huts and lodges are the options here, it might incur you some cost but I'm sure it's worth for the experience plus the place is equipped with the basic amenities. Imagine waking up in the morning at this magical site, for sure it is so relaxing and satisfying.

Rates
Entrance Fee: 150 Php
Spider Web: 150 Php
Kawa Bath: 300 Php/Hour
For an overnight stay, make sure to book ahead or inquire for the list of prices at this facebook page: Treasure Mountain

Treasure Mountain-Tanay Day Tour: 699 Php/Pax that includes Transportation
To Treasure Mountain, Sierra Madre, Calinawan Cave, Daranak Falls and Pililla Windmill
Full details here: EBK Travel & Tours

Well, Tanay Rizal is indeed blessed with a lot of natural attractions, from mountains, caves and waterfalls. Being accessible from the Metro, it sure is one of the most visited weekend spot. For those who are like me who needs a place to unwind, this place is a real haven, for adventurers and leisure-lovers. As I put it, nature at its best with a unique kind of adventure twist.