Bunga Falls: Double the Water Fun in Nagcarlan

The Bunga Twin Falls is nestled amidst the green environs of Brgy. Bunga, about four kilometers from the town proper via concrete road.  The falls and the barangay were both named after the “bunga” palm (betel palm) that used to grow in abundance in the area and that until the recent past had given a means of livelihood to local residents.  (The betel nut is an essential ingredient in the making of the “nganga” or betel chew and therefore was once considered part of the town’s agricultural produce.)

This gift of nature comprises of two 20-foot high waterfalls ostentatiously cascading into a 40-foot deep pool set in a sunken spot of Bunga’s naturescape.  Visitors say that what the falls lacks in height it makes up for in depth and expanse of its catch basin.  And they agree that the unique charm of Bunga Twin Falls comes from the fact that it is a twin falls--two falls, almost identical, flowing down in synergy to keep the pool incessantly overflowing with refreshing water.

Visitors are welcome any time of the year but it is best to come in summer time, when the place becomes alive with the peak of arrivals and the increased services offered by the residents to tourists.  It is the time when grass and bushes on the picnic grounds are trimmed, when native huts for rent are mounted around the pool, when food and beverage vendors put up their makeshift stall nearby, and when public safety volunteers won’t desert the area until the last visitor is out.

Although still undeveloped and therefore devoid of the amenities offered by a resort, this falls has much to offer to nature-trippers.  One who happens to drop by finds no reason not to enjoy the sight and to try a dip into its refreshing water.

There is available parking space and campsite on the grove right before the start of the 7- or 10- minute trail down the waterfalls.  When visiting the place during the off-peak season, it is best to first drop by the barangay hall and seeks assistance from barangay officials or public safety officers on duty.

Information courtesy of: www.nagcarlan.gov.ph

Photos by: manofstillsrem

Travel Guide:

From Manila:

                Bus Ride to San Pablo via Lucena City bound buses.

                Land Mark is SPC Medical Center

                Fare P127

                Jeepney ride From SPC Medical Center to City Proper of San Pablo

                Fare P8

                Jeepney ride from San Pablo City to Nagcarlan

                Terminal is near the San Pablo Cathedral.

                Fare P25