Mt. Napulak, located in Brgy. Tigbanaba, Igbaras, Iloilo, is a 1,200-meter mountain known for its granite “nipple rock” at the peak, giving it the nickname “Nipple Mountain.” It features dense forests, limestone slopes, and scenic waterfalls, attracting hikers with its natural beauty and panoramic views of Panay Island. A local legend tells of a maiden named Napulak, whose tragic love story led to the formation of the mountain, with waterfalls believed to be her flowing tears. The mountain is valued not only for its beauty but also for its role in local culture, hosting weddings, anniversaries, and other milestones. It also supports small businesses at its base, selling local products like civet coffee and batwan jam. To protect it, several local ordinances have been passed, addressing threats such as slash-and-burn farming, illegal logging, and unmanaged tourism.
Photo Credit/s:
Bert Esposado, 2023
Mappers:
Alfie Anthony Neodama, Phillippe Angelo Hiñosa, Ma. Kathrina Ebalan, Joseph Peter Erazo
Tags:
batwan jam, , cultural heritage Iloilo, eco tourism iloilo, granite rock mountain, hiking trails iloilo, , iloilo mountains, Iloilo tourism, local products iloilo, maiden napulak, mt. napulak, mt. napulak hike, mt. napulak legend, nipple mountain, panay island hiking, Philippine Folklore, philippine mountain folklore, philippine nature hikes, protected landscapes philippines, , waterfalls iloilo
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