Facts
- Elevation: 811 m (2,661 ft)
- Prominence: 663 m
- Peak category:
Spesial
- Region:
Luzon
- Coordinates: 14.0403, 120.8020
- Rating:
Bagging It!
Mount Batulao is an inactive stratovolcano located in northwest Batangas province near the border with Cavite. Geographically, it lies along the northwestern rim of the Taal Caldera and forms part of the Tagaytay Range (also called Tagaytay Ridge). It features jagged peaks, rolling ridges, and deep gorges west of Tagaytay city. The mountain is a popular hiking destination known for scenic views of Taal Lake and Volcano, surrounding mountain ranges and coastal areas.
The most popular route start to the north-east at Balagbag (580m) and features numerous mini-peaks, including Peak 8 which is where there is a trail junction with the longer route from Toong to the north-west via a 693m peak. Continuing towards the summit, the main ridge trail passess Peaks 9, 10 and 11 before the summit itself. Down to the east of the peak is a lower loop of camping areas which is the older trail and rejoins the main new trail near to Peak 1 (620m).
There are other minor trails including one up from the south-west at San Jose (200m).
Practicalities
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- Getting there: Access to Mount Batulao is typically from Nasugbu municipality, with trail routes from both east and west sides. The climbing difficulty is considered moderate, suitable even for beginners, with multiple peaks accessible. There are camp sites and basic hiking facilities available. The mountain is also known for a Marian shrine at one summit peak frequently visited by devotees.
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- Permits: Unknown at present.
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- Water sources: Unknown at present.
Local Average Monthly Rainfall (in Manila)
Location
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Origins and Meaning
The name “Batulao” derives from a Tagalog phrase related to illuminated rocks seen when the sun shines between the two prominent peaks at sunrise or possibly from the words for “rock” and “yellow,” referring to the mountain’s color at dawn.