Pagsanjan Gorge National Park, National park with river gorge in Laguna Province, Philippines
Pagsanjan Gorge National Park spreads across limestone cliffs along the Bumbungan River and features a three-tiered waterfall with cascading pools. The landscape consists of narrow passages, soaring rock walls, and dense vegetation that fills the entire valley.
The protected area was established in 1904 as Caliraya Falls Reserve and received national park status in 1939. This recognition helped preserve the natural features of the site for future generations.
Local boatmen navigate traditional wooden canoes through the river gorge, a skill passed down through generations in the surrounding communities. This way of traveling has shaped how people here connect with the river and its landscape.
The park sits about 100 kilometers southeast of Manila with boat trips starting from riverside resorts in Pagsanjan and Cavinti. Visiting during the dry season works best, when water flow remains steady and pathways are easier to navigate.
Behind the main waterfall lies a hidden chamber called the Devil's Cave, reachable by raft through the natural pool at the waterfall's base. Most visitors overlook this chamber because it cannot be seen from outside the water.
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