A Guide to Kilangin Falls: The Hidden Blue Lagoon of Mt. Banahaw

If you are looking for a quick escape from Manila that involves a short hike and some of the bluest waters you will ever see, Kilangin Falls (also known as Bukal Falls) in Laguna is the place to be.

Nestled at the foot of Mt. Banahaw—a dormant volcano famed for its "healing" energy—this waterfall is more than just a swimming spot. The locals believe the water flowing here is sacred, filtering down from the holy mountain itself. In the summer, the catch basin turns an incredible shade of icy turquoise that looks almost magical.

Here is everything you need to know to visit, including updated rates for 2025!

How to Get There

By Private Car (Waze/Google Maps)

This is the easiest way to go.

• Navigation: Simply set your destination to "Kilangin Falls" (or sometimes listed as Bukal Falls) on Waze or Google Maps.

• Parking: There are designated parking areas near the barangay hall or jump-off point where you will register.

By Public Transport (Commute Guide)

If you are commuting from Manila, here is the step-by-step:

1. Bus from Manila: Take a bus bound for Sta. Cruz, Laguna (DLTB and JAC Liner have terminals in Buendia/LRT and Cubao).

   • Travel time: Approx. 2–3 hours.

2. Jeep to Liliw/Majayjay: From the Sta. Cruz terminal, ride a jeepney going to Liliw or Majayjay. Ask the driver to drop you off at the barangay hall for Kilangin/Bukal Falls.

3. Tricycle: Once you get off the jeep, you can take a short tricycle ride to the registration area/jump-off point.

The Hike & Updated Fees

The trek is surprisingly beginner-friendly! You will be walking through lush greenery and some farms that gives the place a raw, forest vibe.

• Difficulty: Easy (Beginner Friendly)

• Distance: 1.5 kilometers

• Hike Duration: Approximately 45 minutes

2025 Updated Rates:

• Entrance Fee: ₱20 per person

• Tour Guide Fee: ₱400 (mandatory per group)

• Life Jacket: ₱50 each (Required if you plan to swim in the deep basin)

The Waterfalls

The waterfall has a bit of an identity crisis because it sits right on the boundary of two towns.

• "Kilangin Falls": This is what the people of Liliw call it. In 2017, it was legally declared to be under the jurisdiction of Liliw, which is why you’ll often see this name on official maps now.

• "Bukal Falls": This is the name given by the people of Majayjay. Bukal translates to "natural spring." This name is actually more scientifically accurate because the water doesn't come from a river above; it springs directly out of the rocks from the mountain's water table.
  

  

2. The "Holy Water" Origin

Unlike many waterfalls that are runoff from rain, the water here originates deep within Mt. Banahaw, an extinct volcano revered in Philippine folklore as a "Holy Mountain."

• Sacred Source: Because the water is filtered through the volcanic mountain's rocks before springing out, it is exceptionally clear and icy cold.

• Healing Beliefs: For generations, locals believed the water had healing properties. Before it became a tourist spot, it was primarily a place for locals to fetch clean water or for spiritualists (faith healers) to wash their charms and amulets to "recharge" them.

  
  

3. The Legend of the Elementals

If you look closely at the reddish, moss-covered rocks surrounding the lagoon, many locals claim they look like faces.

• The Guardians: Folklore says these are the "Elementals" or nature spirits guarding the spring. This fits with the area's reputation (especially the Virgin Mary grotto nearby) as a place where the veil between the human and spirit worlds is thin.

• Respect Required: Elders often warn that you must remain quiet and respectful. The sudden "enchanting" blue color that appears only in summer is sometimes attributed to the mood of these guardians (though science tells us it's the sunlight reflecting off the mineral-rich, clear depths!).

Until around 2016, the falls were a well-kept secret, visited only by farmers and local kids. The trail was wild, muddy, and unmarked. With the rise of social media (Facebook/Instagram travel groups), its "Gatorade blue" waters went viral. This forced the local governments to develop the area, pouring concrete pathways and installing handrails to make the pilgrimage easier for city dwellers.

Watch our full hiking vlog to Kilangin falls below:

Where to Stay Overnight

If you want to turn this into a weekend trip, here are 5 highly-rated resorts nearby:

1. Samkara Restaurant and Garden Resort (Majayjay)

Vibe: A nature-inspired sanctuary. It has a rustic, Balinese feel with a natural spring pool and a beautiful garden. Perfect if you want to stay close to the "healing mountain" atmosphere.

Book your best-priced accommodation here.

2. Villanueva House (Liliw)

Vibe: A heritage stay. This is an ancestral house converted into a cozy inn. It is located right in the town of Liliw, so you are close to the famous "Tsinelas" (slipper) shops and local restaurants.

Book your best-priced accommodation here.

3. Mayas Nest (Nagcarlan - near Liliw)

Vibe: Secluded and homely. This is a bed & breakfast tucked away in the forest. Great for hikers who want peace, quiet, and a home-cooked breakfast before heading out.

Book your best-priced accommodation here.

4. CasaKulot (Anibong/Liliw)

Vibe: A charming homestay with mountain views. It’s affordable, clean, and the hosts are known for being incredibly hospitable. A great budget-friendly option.

Book your best-priced accommodation here.

5. RedDoorz @ Hilarion’s Farm (Majayjay)

Vibe: Budget farm stay. Simple, no-frills, but comfortable and very affordable. It’s a good option if you just need a place to crash after a long day of swimming and hiking.

Book your best-priced accommodation here.

Travel Tip

Since Kilangin Falls is a religious site for some locals (look out for the Virgin Mary statue near the water!), remember to keep your noise levels down and "leave no trace" to respect the spirits of Mt. Banahaw.

Enjoy the cold waters!