Central Luzon is composed of many different provinces that each consists of tourist gems that every traveler and adventurer will absolutely love. The provinces of this region include Bulacan, Pampanga, Aurora, Bataan, Tarlac, Zambales, and the one and only, Nueva Ecija. Famously known as the “Rice Bowl of the Philippines” because of its vast rice fields and abundant plantations of rice, corn, and other vegetables, Nueva Ecija became the center of agriculture for the country.

More than its deep agricultural background, Nueva Ecija is also an underrated tourist destination, especially for first-time visitors in the country. Most people think that this beautiful province is only composed of vast ricefields and agricultural lands. Well, obviously that’s not true. As one of the largest provinces in the Philippines, Nueva Ecija is also heavily blessed and rich not only in natural resources but also in countless natural wonders and historical landmarks. From majestic mountains, sparkling falls, and nostalgic cultural sites, Nueva Ecija is truly one of the best places to be in Luzon.

So, are you ready? Join me as we both explore and be amazed by the 15 Best Tourist Spots in Nueva Ecija!

 

1. Minalungao National Park

Number one on the list is no other than the Minalungao National Park. This unique natural park covers a huge area of 2,018 hectares where tourists can enjoy any form of adventure thanks to the park’s countless natural wonders like the Sumacbao River, limestone rock formations, mining caves, and the majestic Sierra Madre Mountains.

Minalungao is a perfect place for everyone who wants to escape the stressful city and just unwind with a breath of fresh air. There are countless activities to do here like trekking, hiking, bird watching, and monkey viewing! Well, something you shouldn’t miss is the Sumacbao River cruise adventure on a bamboo raft where you’ll be able to witness its crystal clear waters surrounded by towering rock formations! CHECK THE BEST HOTELS IN NUEVA ECIJA HERE

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2. Pantabangan Dam

Aside from being an essential structure, which is responsible for supplying water and electricity to the province, Pantabangan Dam also serves as a popular tourist destination for Nueva Ecija. The dam was constructed in 1974 and is proudly designed by brilliant Filipino engineers. Its reservoir is also considered one of the cleanest and largest not only in the Philippines but in the entire Southeast Asia.

Pantabangan Dam is mainly visited for its peaceful and relaxing environment. The huge body of water surrounded by lush greeneries is simply a refreshing and relaxing sight to see. Oh, and if you’re a fan of engineering, you should definitely visit and admire this exceptional wonder proudly made by Filipinos.

 

3. Isdaan Floating Restaurant | Talavera, Nueva Ecija

Are you ready for another gastronomic adventure with me? Well, I sure hope you are! Our next destination is the Isdaan Floating Restaurant located in the beautiful town of Talavera. Aside from the restaurant’s endless list of delicious dishes, dining here is also a wonderful opportunity to become closer to nature. There are lots of attractions around the compound too such as Chinese sculptures, murals, fish ponds, and traditional Nipa Huts!

Isdaan Floating Restaurant – Talavera is definitely an Instagrammable place to visit in Nueva Ecija. Not to mention that its foods are also truly top tier! Oh and before I forget, don’t miss the chance to cross the famous San Kilo Bridge inside to get a chance to win one (1) kilo of fish for free!

 

4. Camp Pangatian War Memorial Shrine

The Camp Pangatian War Memorial Shrine is the largest war memorial camp in the entire country. The camp was constructed to honor the brave Filipino and American soldiers and their brotherly bond. Pangatian was once a military camp occupied by Japanese Imperial forces where hundreds of American and Filipino soldiers were imprisoned.

Now, Camp Pangatian War Memorial Shrine serves as a reminder of the many lives sacrificed during World War II to secure our freedom. Several WWII veterans and their families usually visit this place to honor the bravery of their brothers. Camp Pangatian is also a perfect place to learn more about our country’s rich history and culture.

 

5. NFA Grains Industry Museum

The National Food Authority (NFA) of the Philippines is the main institution in charge of our country’s food supply and production. Well, because of Nueva Ecija’s major participation in the country’s food production, there was no better place to put up the NFA Grains Industry Museum than in this beautiful province.

The NFA Museum also honors the hardwork and dedication of our Filipino farmers, because if not for them, it’s not impossible that millions of Filipinos would starve. Inside the museum, there’s a huge collection of artifacts and equipment that amazingly depict the evolution of the rice industry in our country.

 

6. Highland Bali Villas Resort and Spa

And there it is! After a long day of touring around and exploring Nueva Ecija’s most popular cultural and historical landmarks, it’s now the perfect time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the province’s comforting natural ambiance. There’s no better place to find that satisfaction other than the Highland Bali Villas Resort and Spa of Pantabangan.

Get ready to experience luxury and all types of fun and exciting adventure during your stay here at Highland Bali Villas. The classy and luxurious Bali-inspired accommodation rooms will definitely exceed your expectations together with their premium facilities and amenities. There’s also the Infinity Pool, Outdoor Jacuzzi, Brahmana Spa, and countless watersports activities to look forward to like Jet Skiing, Kayaking, Fly-fish Ride, and many more!

 

7. Aloha Falls

I hope you still have lots of energy left for adventure because our destination is the magnificent Aloha Falls of Carangglan. Before we reach this scenic destination, we first need to trek for about twenty (20) minutes which mostly consists of river crossing and walking. But trust me, everything will be worth it once we reach Aloha Falls!

Once we finally reach our destination, be prepared to fall in love with the enchanting beauty of Aloha Falls where you can see the crystal clear waters, majestic rock formations, and picturesque views surrounding the area. The strong and cold cascades of water from the Aloha Falls are perfect to re-energize and relax the body for more adventures to come!

 

8. Gapan Church

Gapan Church or most popularly known as the Three Kings Church or The National Shrine of La Virgen Divina Pastora is one of the most important religious institutions not only in Nueva Ecija but in the whole country. Built in 1589, Gapan Church is considered one of the oldest and biggest Roman Catholic churches in the country.

Up to this day, the Byzantine-style church composed of bricks and limestones is still well-preserved, that’s why all of the tourists are always in awe of the church’s old-world beauty. Gapan Church is also a perfect destination to offer prayers and wishes for our safe travels and adventures around the beautiful province of Nueva Ecija.

 

9. PhilRice Institute

As we all know, rice and agriculture are the pride of Nueva Ecija. As the biggest contributor of agricultural products in the country, it has already become part of Nueva Ecija’s responsibility to further improve and develop the Philippines’ rice industry. And that’s exactly the reason why the Philippine Rice (PhilRice) Research Institute was established in Muñoz, Nueva Ecija.

Aside from being a technical and education facility, PhilRice Institute also accepts walk-in visitors who are interested in knowing more about the rice industry and its important aspects in research, science, and engineering. But actually, PRRI’s main attraction is the Rice Science Museum where visitors can be educated more about rice science like the gene bank, screen houses, plant breeding, and many more.

 

10. Gabaldon Falls

Oh, you thought we were already done exploring Nueva Ecija’s finest natural wonders? Nah, we’re just getting started! Gabaldon Falls is another must-visit natural attraction in Nueva Ecija where any nature-lover and adventure-seeker will absolutely have a great time. Before we reach the majestical falls, we first have to stop by the Gabaldon Eco Park where we need to pay the entrance fee and ask for a guide if we want to.

What’s amazing about Gabaldon Falls is its truly remarkable pristine condition. The clean, cold, and crystal clear waters cascading from about ten (10) feet high are very relaxing and refreshing to the body. Gabaldon Falls is also famously surrounded by lush greenery and gigantic rock formations, definitely making it a natural wonder we all must visit at least once in our lives.

 

11. Dupinga River

The Dupinga River, on the other hand, is another enchanting natural attraction located in Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija. The sparkling river is surrounded by the majestic greeny mountains of Sierra Madre where the ice-cold and crystal clear waters directly come from. There are also tons of beautiful rock formations scattered all along the river making it very scenic and picturesque.

The current is also strong in some parts so if you’re craving for some adrenaline rush, then you should go and try! But be extra careful, okay? Dupinga River is a perfect destination for family bonding and get-togethers because you can just relax and have a refreshing bath by the river with your loved ones. You can also rent Nipa Huts along the riverbanks where you can rest and eat! Just be sure to clean as you go, alright?

 

12. Mount Kemalugong (Paasa Peak)

Ah, after some trekking and swimming around, it’s finally time to hike and conquer the majestic peaks of Nueva Ecija! We’re starting with the famous Mount Kemalugong or Paasa Peak which is the tallest mountain in the province. Standing tall at 1,754 meters above sea level, Paasa Peak undoubtedly became the most popular attraction for hikers and mountain climbers.

Once you reach the top, prepare to let your hearts melt with the scenic and breathtaking views of the sea of clouds enveloping the mountains of the Sierra Madre and the dazzling province of Nueva Ecija. Ah, it’s one of those moments where you can just sit back and appreciate the stellar beauty of Mother Nature.

 

13. Mount 387 | Batong Amat

Up next, we’re now conquering the peak of Mount 387 or more popularly known as the Batong Amat Mountain. Compared to Mt. Kemalugong, this mountain is actually more beginner-friendly standing tall at only 724 meters above sea level. Mount 387 is a part of the Caraballo Mountain Ranges so it’s not too steep and rather more manageable to hike.

Watching the sunrise and sunset on Mount 387 has got to be one of the coolest and most beautiful experiences you’ll have in your life. So better maximize your stay and take lots and lots of amazing pictures!

 

14. PMP Paradise Farm

We all know that Nueva Ecija became iconic for its agricultural background, right? While agriculture is the province’s main source of income, it also became a tourist attraction thanks to the creative minds behind the PMP Paradise Farm. This beautiful 250-hectare land is an agro-reforestation project in General Tinio where tourists may enjoy exciting farming activities and lessons.

Prepare to get your hands dirty because PMP Paradise Farm allows visitors to experience first-hand what local farmers do every day to earn a living. Oh, you can also try fishing, horseback riding, sheep herding, Palitaw making, and even trying some local foods such as pinapaitang kambing, ensalada, kaldereta, and many more!

 

15. Pantabangan Lake

Ah, finally. Our last and most awaited destination is Nueva Ecija’s pride, the Pantabangan Lake. It’s actually connected to the majestic Pantabangan Dam which supplies the irrigation for Nueva Ecija’s farm fields. The calm and scenic view of the lake is what the visitors come for here at Pantabangan because there’s no better place to relax than this beautiful destination.

One of the best things to do in Pantabang Lake other than admiring its enchanting beauty is to go fishing and just relax to breathe the natural fresh air. After all, it’s not too often that we get the chance to see a clear, clean, and turquoise blue lake with our own eyes. Especially those who are living in the cities.