Mount Kabunian is an emerging natural tourist attraction found in Poblacion, Bakun, Benguet, the most popular among the Bakun Trio. This majestic high mountain is famously known as the “home of the kankana-ey god, Apo Kabunian.” (god of the pagans) They pray to Apo Kabunian to bless their harvest abundantly.
The rural countryside with a beautiful scene of the Bakun rice terraces which you will pass by going to the waterfalls is a perfect venue to promote eco-tourism and the scenic Kabunians waterfalls, one is Mangta falls, an added attraction for the tourist. Amenities are minimal in the place, but home stays are available. Mt. Kabunian isn't too high on a mountain, but the trail can pose a challenge to beginners. This mountain is a part of the wonderful, breathtaking, huge rocky mountainsides used to be burial grounds during the old days, thus the presence of box coffins and human bones that you'll be witnessing from the area. Its rocky summit is idyllic for the risky, rock trekkers and mountain climbers are a truly challenging route and campsite.
The trail, especially the final assault to the summit features steep cliffs and rock cliffs. One wrong move and you'll be hurtling down the mountain. Hence this is not recommended for a beginner hiker. We natives believe that Apo Kabunian (god) Resides in this mountain. Near the top, wooden coffins can be seen clinging to the side of the summit’s walls. You'll be able to see the rock of Duligen, one of my favorite tales told by my grandfathers in Bakun, Benguet. Every stone has a story and that makes this place sacred. So to every hunter of trails, please respect this place.
