DiscoverCamaligan
Discover the natural beauty, culture and heritage of Camaligan.
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Top 10 Reasons to Visit Camaligan
Reason 01
A Sneak Peak into Camaligan
- Holidays to Camaligan the municipality is simply a few minutes south of the city of Naga and thus when someone wants to go to the greater Bicol Region it is a nice half day stop.
- It is located along the Bicol River which has sustained the agriculture and culture of the town over the centuries.
- The name of the town is a derivation of the word kamalig (shed) that reminisces the old canoe-makers who used to practise their trades in these river-side factories.
- Archaeological excavations carried out under the parish church have also revealed pottery and tools that can be traced to the first millennium AD, and this proves the ancient history of the region.
- When it is dark, visitors have an opportunity to walk down the river promenade and watch lamps on the water, and the local sellers offer fresh fish and candy.
- The general mood is rustic and comfortable, both of which are a refreshing change to people who want to experience history and still have a relaxing time.
- Capital (of the province): Pili
- International airport: No international airport in Camaligan
- Nearest commonly used:
- Naga Airport (Pili) – domestic flights
- Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Manila) – for international flights
- Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
- Time zone: UTC+8 (Philippine Standard Time)
- Driving side: Right-hand side
- Main electricity: 220 volts, 60 Hz
- Official / local languages: Central Bikol, Tagalog, Filipino, English
- Major religion: Predominantly Roman Catholic
Reason 02
Highlights
- Holidays to Camaligan, Camarines Sur will soon find out the colourful River Park, where food stalls, colourful street art, and nightly river cruises are located.
- The river itself is a sight to visit, which has soft streams that blow the fragrance of nipa palm and rice paddy.
- The Archaeological Zone at the town centre displays before the colonial artefacts that reflect the maritime capabilities of the people during their early days.
- The fact that Naga City is located within easy reach provides a chance to the traveller to explore the Minor Basilica of Peñafrancia despite the slower rhythm of Camaligan.
- The weekly market that is held along the river in the town is a vibrant scene of local produce, homemade goods as well as local delicacies.
- Seasonal festivals particularly Kamalig Festival attract songs and dancing together with the fireworks that illuminate the dark sky.
Reason 03
Seasons to Travel
- Holidays to Camaligan, Camarines Sur are better organised during the dry season, between November and May, when there is no water in the river and the weather is mild.
- During the rainy season, which is in July and extends to October, there is occasional flooding and however, it is lush and green, and a sight to see with the rice fields.
- Every September, during the time of the Peñafrancia Festival, people can have an extraordinary cultural experience because of vibrant processions and communal dinners.
- The warmer seasons (December-February) are the time of winter when river walks and evening cruises are particularly enjoyable.
- Summer seasons (June-August) are hot and humid and therefore it suits those who like taking river tours in the morning when the weather is not hot in the afternoon.
- No matter the time of the year, the orchids, hibiscus and other tropical flowers in the riverside gardens of the town provide colour in every visit.
Reason 04
Worth A Visit
Camaligan River Park
- This promenade spans since it is more than a kilometre in length and is surrounded by mangrove trees and bamboo trees, which wave along the light breeze.
- There are food stalls along the way which sell grilled seafood, banana fritters and local sweet that just dissolve in your mouth.
- Cruises of the river begin here in the evening, and the visitor rides under lantern-lit bridges and sees the reflections of the lantern-light play on the water.
- Night performances are held in a small amphitheatre and include folk dancing, contemporary musicians and so on, which adds to the cultural experience.
- The seating points within the park are covered with the woven bamboo umbrellas which offer a comfortable area in which to sit and do people watching.
- Slides and swings in the playgrounds provide fun to families that use it as a place of recreation.
Archaeological Zone
- Stone tools more than 1,500 years old can be observed through guided tours, which provide an idea about the life of early Bicolanos.
- The ruins of a pre-colonial settlement can be viewed under the groundwork of the existing church by visitors.
- The interactive displays are used to tell the viewers the importance of the artefacts within the wider scope of Philippine history.
- The region is well maintained, and one can have a respectful and educative experience.
- The school groups can also get educational workshops on archaeology.
- The silence atmosphere in the zone helps in reflection and appreciating the past more.
River Cruise Experience
- The art is usually a motor or powered banca, which is comfortable and provides panoramic opportunities to the rice paddies surrounding it.
- There is a guide on the ecological significance of the river such as its purpose in irrigation and the transport of the locals.
- The passengers can taste fresh fish that was caught in the river with local spices and grilled on the board.
- The night time cruises have soft music which adds to the serene atmosphere of the river.
- The road passes through historical features, such as ancient bridges and conventional nipa huts.
- The views of sunset on the deck are particularly vivid, the sky acquires the colour of the orange and crimson colour.
Local Food Stalls
- Each booth serves a different local dish, ranging between pinangat and kinalas.
- Freshly made Bicol Express is served, and the heat level is well adjusted with the help of coconut milk.
- Juice prepared of fresh mangoes and calamansi is also available in the streets and is cool in the tropical weather.
- Tourists have an opportunity to taste grilled fish, which was caught in the river, and cooked with garlic and lime.
- The stalls are using the local ingredients which means that the flavours are not compromised.
- The hectic nature of the stalls offers a perfect scenery background of capturing of memorable photos.
Reason 05
Discover More
Ancient Bicol Site
- There are layers of pottery and shellfish that are found on the site that imply that there was a thriving pre-colonial community.
- Evidence of early maritime commerce has been discovered in excavations indicating that there were links with other groups of islands.
- The site contains a museum which exhibits artefacts that were recovered and it gives guided tours.
- The layout of the site gives one an understanding of the way ancient residents structured their homes on the banks of the river.
- Conservation is done to make sure that the site is not lost to the generations of scholars to come.
- The site is used as a living Philippine archaeology classroom in education programmes by students.
Riverine Farming & Fishing
- Farmers to the south also present rice paddies which fill up and empty along the natural rhythms of the river.
- The fishermen employ the use of traditional nets which have been in use over the generations.
- Tourists are able to see what a farmer goes through, day in, day out in planting and harvesting.
- Irrigation is supported by the river and not only rice is maintained but also coconut palms and even banana plants.
- The fishing activities in the community are sustainable, ensuring that the fish populations will be available to the future generations.
- Visits also involve a taste of freshly caught fish cooked using spices that are available in the area.
Catagbacan Historical Trail.
- This trail follows the original name of the settlement, which is giving an insight into its first days.
- Along the path, there are informational plaques detailing important events in the foundation of the town.
- The path goes round ancient nipa huts which have been carefully rebuilt.
- There is a small cafe at the end of the trail, which also sells traditional Bicolano beverages, which are good to take a break during the middle of the trip.
- The scenic routes of the trail have riverside gardens, which display the native flora.
- The process is educational and more relaxing and provides the travellers with a deeper insight into the origins of the region.
Community Cultural Center
- The centre carries both local folklore, music and dance exhibits.
- The native instruments that are used in regular performances include the kulintang and gourd drums.
- Visitors get to know traditional weaving or cooking methods in workshops.
- The library in the centre is in possession of the rare manuscripts and photos of the history of the town.
- Interactive screens enable children to be able to play with culture.
- The facility stands as a living legacy of the efforts of the town to ensure that it conserves its past.
Reason 06
Culture Traditions
- Its main language is Central Bicolano which is a dialect that is full of colloquial expressions and sayings.
- The more ancient tradition of boat-building, which was formerly the main staple of the town, is still kept alive by a few of the master workmen.
- Earlier a holy place, the church compound was transformed to the extent of promoting Catholicism during the Spanish colonisation.
- The town has a folk festival like the Kamalig Festival that is celebrated in honour of the founding of the town and the feast of St. John the Baptist.
- Storey telling is very common during community meetings, when the elder ones are telling about the legends of the river and spirits.
- Rituals that are associated with rice harvest are also conducted like blessings done at the mouth of the river to guarantee a good season.
Reason 07
Food Fun Fashion
Food
- The Bicol Express is a usual dish and is a favourite among the locals and visitors to the country.
- Pinangat (taro leaves cooked in coconuts milk) is a nourishing dish that is very soothing.
- A fast but filling lunch is kinalas, which is noodle with a savoury broth and meat.
- Fresh river fish which might be grilled or steamed transports the abundance of the Bicol River to the plate.
- Rice cakes known as kakanin, are sweetened with glutinous rice and coconut milk.
- Domestic drinks are fresh smears of calamansi juice and coconut water which work best to cool the heat.
Fun
- Evening walks along the river prominade give one a peaceful break to day time activities.
- Families have an opportunity to have picnic on the background of riverbanks and rice paddies during their holidays to Camaligan.
- The Kamalig Festival in the Philippines provides a vivid show of floats, parades and fireworks that excite both the children and adults.
- The sunset river tours provide a romantic effect to the romance-seeking couples and adventure tourists.
- There are children playgrounds in the River Park which keep the little ones busy as parents rest.
- Handmade crafts are located in the hands of local artisans where visitors can buy something of the Camaligan heritage.
Fashion
- Cotton shorts, suits, sundresses, and shirts are the best garments to use in the hot but wet climate.
- Sensible shoes like walking shoes or comfortable sandals are good shoes when touring the town streets and the river promenade.
- Light jacket or cardigan can be used on colder nights when people go on river cruises or walk in the streets in the evening hours.
- Literature clothing such as the camisa and bahag is sometimes used during the festivals to celebrate the culture.
- Regarding long time periods in the outdoor environment, it is vital to use sun protection: hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Prepare a small tote bag or a backpack in order to carry some souvenirs, snacks and personal effects on the go.
Reason 08
Nature Safari
- The mangrove forests of the Bicol River are home to various bird species and therefore bird-watching is a valuable activity.
- Green mosaic rice paddies around town vary with the seasons.
- The banks of the river are interspersed with bamboo and nipa palms which are swayed by the wind.
- The riverbanks can be seen with small wildlife (monitor lizards and freshwater crabs).
- The ecology of the river supports the various fish species that facilitate the local fishing industry.
- Nature tours educate the visitor on the ecological significance of wetlands and riverine habitats.
Reason 09
Events Fiestas
- Holidays to Camaligan, Camarines Sur are also marked by the Kamalig Festival that takes part every June 5-13, marking the anniversary of the town foundation and the commemoration of St. John the Baptist.
- The festival is also characterised by colourful processions along the streets, traditional dances, and impressive fire-show.
- The barangays in the town hold cooking competitions where they present local specials like Bicol Express and pinangat among others.
- The procession of fluvial at the Bicol River during the festival is a sight worth seeing and the boats are decorated using bright colours and lanterns.
- There are also hand-made souvenirs such as woven baskets and painted wooden figurines on sale all around the festival grounds.
- Visitors come to the event representing Bicol Region, exploring different cultures, and enhancing the economy.