When we were about to explore A’pfaw Mahencha Falls in Mayoyao, we made a stopover at Khohang Garden and Viewpoint.
It was only after a few minutes that I realized Khohang Garden Viewpoint is actually the gateway to the waterfalls. There’s a sign there indicating the direction to the falls, marking the beginning of the paved pathway.
Khohang Garden is situated on a hill, on the side of a cliff overlooking the beautiful Mayoyao Rice Terraces. Arriving there in the morning is already a treat, as you can enjoy the lush greenery and the beauty of nature.
Some of my fellow bloggers were busy flying their drones, while others were simply taking pictures. As for me, I preferred to soak in the serenity that surrounded the area. Although there was ample time to capture videos and photos, at that moment, savoring the present was priceless.
There are plenty of benches and tables around the garden. After walking for a few minutes, I decided to sit down on a long bench and relax. Then, someone announced that breakfast was ready.
Oh, I almost forgot that we were there to have breakfast. As someone accustomed to intermittent fasting, I often skip breakfast. But, in a place as beautiful as Mayoyao, I knew I had to experience enjoying a meal there.
So, I joined the group at a long table for breakfast. We had rice, eggplant, tomatoes, and dried fish wrapped in banana leaves. There were also packs with longganisa instead of dried fish. Of course, I tried both dishes. I enjoyed eating with my hands while surrounded by nature and gazing at the beauty of the rice terraces.
It was time to head to A’pfaw Mahencha Falls. Thankfully, I had a hearty breakfast, as the walk was quite long—more than 500 steps on a paved pathway leading down to the waterfalls. It was challenging, especially on the way back up, but I took my time and enjoyed the hike.
A’pfaw Mahencha Falls offered a truly relaxing and refreshing experience. I later wrote a separate blog post about my time there.
Upon returning to Khohang Garden, the activities were not yet over, as we were treated to a storytelling session narrated by local historian Robert Bongayon. He shared with us the Legend of Akinnaja.
This is the story of Akinnaja, a lady with exceptional beauty. She was so stunning that her radiance would captivate anyone who beheld her. However, she grew up feeling lonely, as her parents were always busy working in the fields. Then, she met Pho Fu At, a fairy rat who befriended her and later took her to the forest. To ease Akinnaja’s immense loneliness, Pho Fu At built a swing for her. She would swing so high and sing so melodiously that her parents could hear her songs while toiling in the fields.
The legend of Akinnaja can also be experienced and heard through hudhud, a chant and tradition in Mayoyao used for storytelling. The hudhud is recognized as UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
If you visit Mayoyao, don’t forget to visit Khohang Garden and A’phaw Mahencha Falls. Please coordinate with the Mayoyao Tourism Office.
Mayoyao Tourism Office
Facebook: Majestic Mayoyao
Email: mayoyaotourism@gmail.com
Mobile: 0906-9582204 / 0949-6640088
Khohang Garden & Viewpoint Travel Guide
How to Get There
Once you’re in Mayoyao, you can hire a local guide or a tricycle from the town center to take you to the garden. It’s a good idea to get in touch with the Mayoyao Tourism Office beforehand to coordinate your visit.
Best Time to Go
The weather in Mayoyao is pleasant throughout the year, but the ideal time to visit Khohang Garden is during the dry season, from November to April. May is also a great time to go as the weather is still nice, and everything around the garden is lush and green.
What You’ll See
Khohang Garden is a peaceful place filled with colorful flowers, trees, and paths to explore. It offers stunning views of the mountains and rice terraces nearby, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Things to Do
- Nature Walks – Take leisurely walks along the garden’s paths and soak in the beauty of nature. You might spot some beautiful birds and butterflies fluttering around.
- Picnicking – Bring along some snacks and have a picnic amidst the beautiful scenery of Khohang Garden. There are designated spots where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Photography – Khohang Garden is full of picturesque scenes waiting to be captured. Whether you’re a pro or just enjoy taking photos with your phone, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here.
More Mayoyao Blog Posts
- Mayoyao weaving
- Mt. Nagchajan Viewpoint in Mayoyao (Story & Guide)
- Where to Stay in Mayoyao
- Maura’s Cafe in Mayoyao, Ifugao (Review)
- Mayoyao Rice Terraces
