Instead of taking the SLEX route where traffic jam is a daily occurrence, take the Antipolo-Tanay-Mabitac route, passing through the towns of Paete, Lumban and Pagsanjan. This part of the journey is a bonus in itself as you get to see and traverse mountains where coconut and mango trees are in abundance.
As you ascend the Sierra Madre from the town of Pililla, you are treated to a spectacular view of the serene waters of Laguna De Bay from the mountain ridge. At the historic town of Paete, there is a curio shop offering country-style collectible items at reasonable prices. And having your lunch at Exotic restaurant at the outskirts of Paete is a good option.
Do not miss the turning point at Pagsanjan. There is a covered public market which also serves as a terminal for public-utility vehicles. You can always ask around for directions. As you turn left, the mystical Mount Banahaw comes in full view. You drive through the peaceful towns of Magdalena, Liliw and Majayjay with lush vegetation and coconut trees in sight.
After an approximately 3-hour drive covering more or less 135 kilometers of good roads, you arrive at the small town of Lucban nestled at the foot of Mt. Banahaw. As it is a celebration of the town fiesta, dubbed as Pahiyas Festival, it is most likely you will not be able to drive to the town proper. But there are pay parking spaces and you walk for about 10 minutes to where the day-long activities are held. Pahiyas Festival is held every May 15th in honor of the town's patron saint, San Isidro de Labrador, as well as a thanksgiving day for a bountiful harvest.
The frontages of houses are decorated with fruits, vegetables and other farm products as well as colorful kipings. Kipings are made from ground rice and can be consumed when fried. Savor Pancit Habhab which is rolled and served on a banana leaf and taken without using spoon or fork. Longganisang Lukban, Broas and Otap are best sellers. Straw hats are inexpensive take- home items. And do not miss the Carabao Procession with numerous colorful floats as barefoot residents dance to the music of a drum and lyre band.
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