Mount Arayat, Extinct volcano in Pampanga, Philippines
Mount Arayat is an extinct volcano rising 1,033 meters above the plains of Central Luzon, with a collapsed crater visible on its northwestern side. Dense forest covers the lower slopes, while the summit area shows rocky terrain with less vegetation.
Revolutionaries used the mountain as a retreat in September 1896 following their uprising against Spanish rule in the Nueva Ecija region. These forested slopes provided shelter and cover during the struggle for Philippine independence.
The mountain takes its name from the town of Arayat at the base of its southern slopes. Hikers encounter small chapels and wooden crosses along the trails, placed by pilgrims over time.
The southern trail begins in Arayat town and passes through forest sections toward the summit, while the northern path starts from Pampanga State Agricultural University. Hikers should set out early in the morning, as the sun grows strong by midday and shade becomes scarce.
The peak stands alone amid the flat rice fields of Central Luzon and can be seen from far away, sometimes from distances beyond 70 kilometers (43 miles). On clear days, people in the region use its silhouette for orientation.
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