Need to get away from Manila’s congested streets? Pangasinan is located on the western side of Luzon and is only three to four hours away from the Metropolitan. Therefore, visitors are unavoidable to visit the site and enjoy its unique and refreshing top places to see.
In reality, the province’s name come from the term “panag-asinan,” which means “place where salt is made.” However, this does not necessarily imply that their cuisine is salty; two famous delicacies from the region are tupig and puto calasiao, sweet rice cakes.
Check out what Pangasinan offers and add them to your list of places when visiting the Philippines.
Photo Credits: guidetothephilippines
Hundred Islands National Park
The Pangasinan Hundred Island National Park in Alaminos is a popular site for both locals and foreign visitors. The protected area includes 123 islands spread throughout the Lingayen Gulf. Each islet has a distinct shape and has developed millions of years ago, making viewing them even more precious and uncommon.
Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag
The photos of the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag do not do it credit. You would assume it’s like many of the large buildings found across the Philippines. Still, one thing that distinguishes this cathedral in Manaoag is its designation as a Minor Basilica in 2015.
This acknowledges the church’s architectural and historical significance. It is also a canonical associate of the Vatican’s Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major.
Photo Credits: vigattintourism
Patar Beach
Like many others around Manila, this Patar beach is popular with people looking for a brief respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. Patar Beach, in particular, is well-known for its long length of golden beaches and beautiful blue seas, which are ideal for a relaxing swim.
Patar Beach will not disappoint if you enjoy sunsets since its location directly facing the West Philippine Sea provides spectacular sunset views.
Enchanted Cave
If you’re in Pangasinan during the heat, the Enchanted Cave in Bolinao is a great spot to cool down. Inside is a pool of clean natural freshwater with a maximum depth of 6ft, suitable for a relaxing swim.
Photo credits: outoftownblog
Lingayen Beach
Lingayen Beach is well recognized as American General Douglas MacArthur landed during World War II in 1945. It is also well-known for its powdery dunes, calm seas, and laid-back atmosphere.
Adrenaline enthusiasts will undoubtedly love their stay at Lingayen Beach, where you can drive an all-terrain vehicle down the beach on weekends. You may stay at one of the many resorts along the beach, or you can pitch your tent on the camping grounds if you like to rough it.
Bolinao Falls
Bolinao Falls consists of three waterfalls: Bolinao Falls 1, 2, and 3. But don’t be fooled by the names—they may not seem remarkable, but they are among the best Pangasinan tourist destinations.
While the falls are easily accessible by vehicle and do not need much walking, the roads leading there can be rocky, so be prepared for a bumpy ride.
Photo Credits: zenrooms
Tayug Sunflower Eco Park
The Tayug Sunflower Eco Park is a flower lover’s paradise. As the name implies, the park is home to hundreds of blooms, although not all of them are sunflowers.
There are also marigold, petunia, and celosia beds, as well as other decorative plants. There are also several types of veggies in the park that you may pick and harvest for a charge.
Our Farm Republic
Visit Our Farm Republic if you want to learn more about farming and see what it’s like to raise and harvest your crops. The 5.8-hectare organic farm serves as both a tourist attraction and a training facility. While they provide training and seminars for both new and experienced farmers, there are also various things to do here.
Fun Things to Do in Pangasinan
Pangasinan is a large province with a wide range of tourism attractions. Therefore, organizing a Pangasinan itinerary tour with communities varying in expertise, topography, and amenities can be challenging.
So we will save you that extra step of planning your trip to Pangasinan; here are some fun and exciting things to do while you are here.
👍Sunbathe on the Tondol White Sand Beach
This white sand beach has a beautiful view of the horizon and is ideal for sunbathing. The sun is always shining brightly and burning Anda, causing even natives to tan naturally.
👍Take a Ride along Daang Kalikasan
As you gaze out over the nature preserve, the splendor of Daang Kalikasan is unrivaled. Locals are known to ride their bikes or motorbikes along this route to enjoy the cool wind of nature. In addition, many people stop along this route to capture Instagram-worthy photos against the stunning backdrop.
👍Pilgrimage Hike to Mt. Zion Pilgrim Mountain
The summit of this pilgrim peak provides a panoramic view of Pangasinan and its adjacent province of Zambales. The challenging journey is well worth it for this breathtaking view.
👍Pangasinan Trade Fair and Expo
The province government organizes the Pangasinan Trade Fair and Expo from early April to early May. The Trade Fair is located on the bay walk, facing the Lingayen Gulf, and is best seen at night, when shacks with bright lights stand out against the darkness.
Pangasinan’s Must-Try Foods
Food is often a topic of conversation while planning a trip. After all, food is the prize we all receive after a day of sightseeing and pleasant activities.
Food in Pangasinan is unique and excellent as a result of the province’s distinct geography and culture. However, with so many culinary options to select from, it might not be easy to plan what you’ll eat on your Pangasinan trip.
🍽️Lechon bagoong
Bagoong is a fermented fish sauce used as a culinary condiment or sauce to complement fried foods or green mango. On the other hand, bagoong, has its origins in Lingayen, Pangasinan’s capital city.
🍽️Mangaldan Tapa
Tapa is one of the ingredients of tapsilog, our favorite morning meal. Tapa made across the country, Mangaldan Tapa is enhanced and well worth trying. Mangaldan tapa has delicate meat that has been well seasoned. As a result, it is neither too salty nor too sweet, but rather the right balance of the two flavors.
🍽️Alaminos Longganisa
Longganisa is the Filipino equivalent to sausage. Longganisa is available in a variety of flavors around the country. They differ in the fat-to-meat ratio, the meat pieces used, and the spices used to marinate the meat.
Alaminos Longganisa is distinct in that it is oranger in color than ordinary longganisa. Furthermore, rather than being separated by knots, the various parts are kept together by tiny sticks.
🍽️Pigar-pigar
Pigar-pigar is a dish made of thin beef slices sautéed with onions and cabbage. It’s a well-known pulutan in Dagupan City, Pangasinan. It’s also popular on top of hot rice. This delicacie is served with a dipping sauce of fresh chile, calamansi juice, and soy sauce due to its mild flavor.
🍽️Puto Calasiao
Puto is a steamed rice cake that is popular in Pangasinan. This traditional Filipino kakanin is generally white, although tastes are added such as pandan, ube, and strawberry.
Puto Calasiao have its distinct puto recipe. Calasiao is a tiny town on the island of Pangasinan. Puto Calasiao refers to the unique puto made in this town.
🍽️San Jacinto Corn
When traveling from Dagupan City to Manaoag on the main road, one may see a line of corn highway sellers in the peaceful village of San Jacinto. These roadside sellers sell fresh-from-the-husk sweet corn.
Corn is one of San Jacinto’s primary crops. Farmers and neighbors cook the maize and sell it hot to passing tourists. You are welcome to park your car on the side of the road, and the merchants will accommodate you. You can even bring some uncooked corn back home with you.
Interesting Pangasinan Facts You’ve Never Heard Before
Pangasinan is a province in the Philippines that many tourists miss when visiting the country. However, some fascinating facts about the area will entice you to see it on your next vacation to the Philippines.
❕Pangasinan is from the Word “asin”
Pangasinan is the Philippines’ greatest salt producer; although it was under Spanish colonization, it is referred to as “pang-asinan,” or “salt-making region.”
❕The National Anthem was Composed in Pangasinan
The lyrics is inspired by a poem called “Filipinas,” written in Spanish by Jose Palma in Bautista, Pangasinan. The music was then commissioned by General Emilio Aguinaldo, the first president of the Republic of the Philippines.
❕The Philippines’ First Sunflower Maze
This sunflower field, known as Allied Botanical Corporation, is located in Barangay Lichauco in Tayug, in the province’s eastern region.
❕First Train outside Manila
On November 24, 1892, the railway first run. It travels from Dagupan City to Tutuban, Manila. Unfortunately, the railway is no longer operational, although its ruins may still be visible at Tutuban.
Getting There
Pangasinan does not have an airport. So, if you’re traveling from Manila, you’ll probably take the bus. Every hour, Victory Liner buses travel from Manila to Alaminos. These buses travel via Dau and Tarlac. You may take NLEX if you have a car (North Luzon Express Way). Taxis may also take you to Pangasinan if you are ready to spend a lot of money.
Jeepneys and tricycles are quite popular in Manila, as they are in other Philippine provinces and cities. Sidecars or pedicabs are available in various areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is Pangasinan well-known?
A: Pangasinan is a popular tourist destination for those looking to discover islands and beaches, waterfalls, and delicious native cuisine—all within a 3-4 hour drive of Manila.
Q: In Pangasinan, what language do people speak?
A: Most Pangasinenses speak two or three additional languages, including Ilocano, Filipino, and English.
Q: Is the Philippines inexpensive?
A: Even by Southeast Asian standards, the Philippines is an inexpensive travel destination.
Q: What is the best way to go from Manila to Pangasinan?
A: The best approach to go from Manila to Pangasinan without a car is to ride the Baclaran LRT, which takes 4 hours and 48 minutes and costs between 320 and 490 pesos.
Q: Is Pangasinan well-known?
A: Pangasinan is well-known as a pilgrimage trip destination.
Last Words
Pangasinan has a rich history and many attractions. You can never go wrong with the location, from their delectable cuisine to the magnificent views of the country. Everywhere you look, a picture-perfect vista, and there is never a shortage of things to do and see in Pangasinan. If you are planning to visit the Philippines soon here are some tips.
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