Benguet Cradle to the Grave (Kabayan Mummies) (Tourism) published July 27, 2003
Byline: JASER A. MARASIGAN
KABAYAN, Benguet They are said to be the famous and intriguing treasures of Kabayan in Benguet. Preserved through the ages by tribes more than 500 years ago, the Meking, Ibaloi term for mummies, are a living testimony of the respect the elders have for their dead.
Although several have already been brought down to museums for exhibition, these mummies are usually housed in almost inaccessible caves in high cliffs and mountains.
Together with Richard Silaraks of National Geographic Channel-Asia and Rei Ann Cayetano,leading the group of mountaineers, we recently went on a three-day expedition to Kabayan, organized by National Geographic and Agatep Associates, to see these National Cultural Treasures.
Home of the Gods
The way to Kabayan central, where the Opdas mass burial cave is located, was a grueling five-hour jeepney ride from Baguio city, going through steep and rugged mountain slopes. It was tiring but fun, a more thrilling experience than riding even the most death-defying roller coaster.
The next day, it took us another five hours to reach the top of Mount Singakalsa, where Timbak Cave is located, a mummy burial site. We stayed there for the night. The group did not only endured the rough ride, but also the cold temperature at the peak (4 degrees Celsius).
Kabayan is one of the 13 municipalities of Benguet province located in the central …
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Byline: JASER A. MARASIGAN
KABAYAN, Benguet They are said to be the famous and intriguing treasures of Kabayan in Benguet. Preserved through the ages by tribes more than 500 years ago, the Meking, Ibaloi term for mummies, are a living testimony of the respect the elders have for their dead.
Although several have already been brought down to museums for exhibition, these mummies are usually housed in almost inaccessible caves in high cliffs and mountains.
Together with Richard Silaraks of National Geographic Channel-Asia and Rei Ann Cayetano,leading the group of mountaineers, we recently went on a three-day expedition to Kabayan, organized by National Geographic and Agatep Associates, to see these National Cultural Treasures.
Home of the Gods
The way to Kabayan central, where the Opdas mass burial cave is located, was a grueling five-hour jeepney ride from Baguio city, going through steep and rugged mountain slopes. It was tiring but fun, a more thrilling experience than riding even the most death-defying roller coaster.
The next day, it took us another five hours to reach the top of Mount Singakalsa, where Timbak Cave is located, a mummy burial site. We stayed there for the night. The group did not only endured the rough ride, but also the cold temperature at the peak (4 degrees Celsius).
Kabayan is one of the 13 municipalities of Benguet province located in the central …
.....
