Up in the northern part of Negros Oriental lies the beautiful city of Guihulngan. Other people, mostly the one with a foreign tongue, would at first find it hard to even pronounce the name of the city. Being so exotic, most people avoid the attempt of visiting the area. But after knowing the beauty it holds, one would definitely pack their bags and pay Guihulngan City a visit.
Brief History
The city of Guihulngan is full of historic events that no one of today could be alive to verbally tell the tale. However, the story of the city remains in the mind of its people throughout generations. A long time ago, Moro pirates would venture through the sea and steal goods from the people of Guihulngan. Women would be raped, children would be made slaves and it was marked as a dark time for many people.
The only thing that saved the people from the savages was a bell. With the use of the bell, people were warned if pirate ships were on their way giving time for people to prepare. One day after a great deal of preparation, the people awaited the sound of the bell as men stood firm on the grounds of Guihulngan to defend it from the Moro pirates and savages.
Tourist Attractions in Guihulngan City
Cara-Bell Festival of Guihulugan
In relation to the bell that saved the people from the savages of long ago, the Cara-Bell Festival is celebrated. The festive event is held annually on the month of May. Colorful festival costumes and floats are showcased around the city streets of Guihulngan. The festival is also known as a Thanksgiving event for their patron saint San Jose (Saint Joseph) who is said to give the town’s people strength and courage.
Hinakpan Hills – Chocolate Hills of Negros
When it comes to nature, Guihulngan has surely something to offer like the Chocolate Hills of Negros. The breathtaking view of the Hinakpan Hills can be comparable with the famous Chocolate Hills of Bohol. But why go so far to Bohol when there is one in Guihulngan? It called the Chocolate Hills of Negros because the hills are green during the wet season but turn brown during the hot and dry seasons.
Arvor Caves in Guihulngan
There are not only hills in Guihulngan but caves as well. The Arvor Caves was given its name from the initiallys of the first group of people who discovered it inside of of the Hinakpan Hills. The names of the discovered were Arnald, Roldan, Victor, Oligario, and Ranny. All of them resides in the barangay of Hinakpan.
Kansalakan River
Another great blessing from nature is the Kansalakan River. The river is known as an enchanted and very mysterious place even for locals. It was said that many people have lost their lives by this enchanting river. Their souls would then guard the place against any harm. Despite the goosebumps the story of the Kansalakan River, the place is still too encouraging and inviting. Many locals and guests visit the Kansalakan River yearly for a swim in the refreshing waters.
Mainit Falls & Makatang Falls of Guihulngan
The Mainit Falls and the Makatang Falls are not the biggest and highest waterfalls in Negros Oriental, however, they more nonetheless waterfalls. Located with nothing else but pure nature, the Mainit Falls and Makatang Falls are definitely worth a visit and meditation. There are no nearby stores in the area so BYOF (Bring your Own Food) is a must. But the most important thing to bring is your own trash bags to clean up before leaving the majestic falls.
Waterfalls, rivers, caves…name it Guihulngan has it! Blessed with so many kinds of natural wonders and great culture, Guihulngan City is a city one should not miss while visiting the province of Negros Oriental.
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