Sagada: A Glimpse into the Mystical World of the Hanging Coffins

Located in the heart of the Philippine mountain province of Mountain Province, Sagada is a town unlike any other. While the picturesque mountain ranges, lush forests, and gushing waterfalls are worth visiting, Sagada’s most prominent attraction is its mysterious “hanging coffins.” As I embarked on my journey to Sagada, I had my fair share of scepticism and excitement, but what awaited me was an experience that surpassed my expectations in every way.

After an arduous six-hour journey through winding mountain roads, I finally arrived at the quaint little town of Sagada. A seemingly sleepy town with an old-world charm and nestled in the foothills of Cordillera Mountain Ranges, it was hard to believe that something as spine-chilling as hanging coffins would exist here.

Hanging coffins are an age-old tradition that the Igorot tribes have been following for over two millennia. As I stepped into the Sagada Hanging Coffins site, I was greeted by the serene and otherworldly beauty of these dangling boxes.

The coffins hung at various heights, depending on the deceased person’s status and achievements in life. According to local legends, these coffins bring the departed closer to heaven, making them an offering to the gods. The hanging coffins were only used by prominent figures, with their spirits believed to have mystical powers and were thus granted access to the realm of the gods.

I found myself spellbound, observing these unique cultural traditions from afar. My guide, a friendly and jovial local, explained the significance of the practice to me.

The Igorot tribe of the Sagada region believed in the concept of spirits; to them, death was an inevitable part of life. When a person died, they believed the soul lingered on and was not complete until their bones rested alongside their ancestors. However, there was a unique issue to be tackled - Cordillera is notorious for its rocky terrain, which makes burial a near-impossible task. To solve this issue, they started suspending their dead loved ones’ coffins on the cliffs.

Over the years, the coffins have been placed in an arrangement that suggested the hierarchy in their communities, with the highest coffin marking the end of the lineage and the lowest representing the newborn members.

It was impressive to note that even with their age-old practices, the Igorots have preserved their ancestral customs and continue integrating them with their modern lifestyle. While some people perceive the hanging coffins as eerie, the people of Sagada hold them in the highest esteem and believe their ancestors' spirits have made them what they are today.

Aside from the hanging coffins, Sagada is a mecca for adventurous activities that add a zing to the overall experience.

Climbing is a favoured activity in Sagada, and for a good reason - the mountain ranges here are absolutely breathtaking. Climbers who come to Sagada often start by conquering Mount Ampacao, a summit that rises over 1882 meters above sea level. The climb is not for the faint of heart, with its winding trails that climb steadily up the mountain slope, past deep gullies, dense jungle foliage, and rocky outcrops that will challenge even the most experienced climber. Still, for those who persevere, the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, rolling hills, and valleys make the arduous climb worthwhile.

Caving is another exhilarating activity available in Sagada for visitors looking to push their limits. Cave enthusiasts who make the trip here are in for a treat, as the town is known to have some of the most exciting cave networks in the Philippines. The most popular cave among tourists is Sumaguing Cave, located deep in the heart of Sagada's limestone karst formation. To get to Sumaguing Cave, adventurers must brave the winding roads that snake their way through steep gorges before reaching the cave entrance. The cave is a labyrinth of narrow passages, glistening waterfalls, underground rivers, and strange rock formations, making it a unique adventure experience.

Sagada is also the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to try out different adventure sports. Mountain biking is one of the top sports here, with visitors encouraged to bring their bikes and hit the scenic trails. The local community has developed mountain bike routes that vary in terrain and difficulty, catering to riders of all skill levels. For the more experienced riders, the trail to Kiltepan Peak is an excellent option. The trail passes through Sagada's pine forests before opening into panoramic views of rice paddies, mountains, and the rolling countryside.