Pulilan Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, accommodations, and local culture and customs in Pulilan. Learn about transportation options, nearby destinations, and more in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Pulilan

Pulilan is a municipality located in the province of Bulacan, Philippines. Known for its vibrant culture, Pulilan is rich in history, natural attractions, and scenic views. From museums and historical places to outdoor adventures and local cuisine, there is something for everyone in Pulilan.

List of Places to Visit in Pulilan

If you’re looking for things to do in Pulilan, then you’re in the right place. Here are some must-see attractions in Pulilan, Philippines:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Pulilan Parish Church – A historical landmark that dates back to the Spanish colonial period, the Pulilan Parish Church is a must-see for those looking to explore the town’s religious roots.
  • Pulilan Museum and Library – Located in the town plaza, this museum features exhibits on Pulilan’s history, culture, and arts.
  • Lion’s Park – Home to a temple, a giant golden Buddha statue, and a mini-zoo, this park is popular among tourists and locals alike.

Natural Attractions of Pulilan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pulilan Butterfly Haven and Resort – A privately owned resort that features an enclosed garden with butterflies, birds, and other wildlife.
  • Angat Watershed Forest Reserve – A protected area with a lush forest, hiking trails, and scenic views.
  • Mt. Balagbag – A popular destination for hikers and adventure-seekers, Mt. Balagbag offers a challenging climb with a rewarding view of the city at the summit.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pulilan

Hiking and biking are popular activities in Pulilan due to the town’s natural attractions and scenic views. Some popular routes include:

  • San Isidro Hill – A medium-difficulty hike that offers a great view of the town and surrounding areas.
  • Balisong River Trail – A popular bike trail that runs along the Balisong River, featuring a mix of paved and dirt road.
  • Mt. Manalmon – A challenging climb that rewards hikers with an amazing view of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Best Things to Do in Pulilan: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and biking, Pulilan offers a range of activities and tours that will surely make your visit worthwhile:

  • Farm Tour – Pulilan is known for its agricultural products, and a farm tour will give you an inside look into the town’s farming industry.
  • Food Tour – From the town’s specialty dishes to local street food, a food tour is a great way to experience the town’s rich culinary heritage.
  • River Cruise – Explore the Balisong River on a boat tour and get a glimpse of the local wildlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pulilan

A week-long itinerary for Pulilan might look something like this:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Pulilan Museum and Library
2 Hike Mt. Balagbag
3 Bike the Balisong River Trail
4 Take a farm tour
5 Explore the Angat Watershed Forest Reserve
6 Food tour
7 River cruise

Food and Drink Scene of Pulilan

No trip to Pulilan is complete without trying the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Betute – Made with stuffed frogs, this dish is a delicacy in Pulilan.
  • Embutido – A Filipino meatloaf that is a popular comfort food in the Philippines.
  • Chicharon Bulaklak – Fried pork intestines that are crispy and addicting.

Local Beverages

  • Sago’t Gulaman – A refreshing drink made with tapioca pearls, brown sugar, and gelatin.
  • San Miguel Beer – The official beer of the Philippines, San Miguel is a staple drink in Pulilan.
  • Kapeng Barako – A locally grown coffee that is known for its strong flavor.

Where to Stay in Pulilan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Pulilan offers a range of accommodations to suit different budget levels. Here are some options:

  • Sulo Riviera Hotel – A four-star hotel that features a pool and fitness center.
  • Pulilan Haven Resort – A private resort that offers comfortable rooms and a peaceful ambiance.
  • Ma Sarada Hostel – A budget-friendly hostel that offers no-frills accommodations.

What to Buy in Pulilan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products that you should consider bringing home from Pulilan:

  • Balisong Knives – These are pocket knives that are made in Pulilan and are known for their quality and durability.
  • Pulilan Longganisa – A type of sausage that is unique to Pulilan and is known for its garlicky flavor.
  • Hand-woven Fabrics – Pulilan is known for its hand-woven fabrics that come in different designs and colors.

Local Culture and Customs of Pulilan

Pulilan is a town that is rich in culture and tradition. Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting:

  • Respect the elders – Filipinos have great respect for their elders, and it is important to show this when interacting with locals.
  • Be conservative – While Filipinos are friendly and welcoming, they are also conservative, especially when it comes to dress and behavior.
  • Partake in local customs – Participating in local customs such as festivals and events is a great way to experience Filipino culture firsthand.

Best Time to Visit Pulilan

The best time to visit Pulilan is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. The weather is typically warm and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pulilan

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Pulilan:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine – Pulilan is known for its unique dishes, so don’t hesitate to try something new.
  • Respect the environment – Pulilan’s natural attractions should be treated with respect and care.
  • Be polite and courteous – Filipinos value courtesy and politeness, so be sure to show these qualities when interacting with locals.

Don’t:

  • Litter – Littering is a serious offense in the Philippines and can result in hefty fines.
  • Take photos of people without permission – As with any culture, it is important to respect people’s privacy and ask for permission before taking their photo.
  • Raise your voice – Filipinos value calmness and politeness, so avoid shouting or raising your voice in public places.

Safety and Health

Pulilan is generally a safe place for tourists, but it is important to take standard precautions to ensure your safety:

Safety in Pulilan

  • Avoid flashing valuables – Petty theft can occur, so it’s best to keep valuables out of sight.
  • Be cautious at night – As with any city, it’s best to be cautious when walking around at night.
  • Stay aware when using public transportation – Always be aware of your surroundings when using public transportation.

Health in Pulilan

  • Stay hydrated – The weather can be hot and humid, so it’s important to stay hydrated to avoid heat stroke or dehydration.
  • Wear insect repellent – Mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever can be a risk in the Philippines, so it’s important to wear insect repellent.
  • Stay up-to-date on vaccinations – It is recommended to be up-to-date on standard vaccinations before traveling to the Philippines.

Getting to Pulilan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Pulilan is easily accessible from Manila through various modes of transportation:

Airports Near Pulilan

  • Ninoy Aquino International Airport – Manila’s international airport is about 34 kilometers from Pulilan.

Bus Stations Near Pulilan

  • Victory Liner – Buses depart from Cubao and Pasay, with stops in Pulilan.
  • Genesis Transport – Buses depart from Cubao and Pasay, with stops in Pulilan.

Other Options

  • Taxis/Grab – Taxis and Grab drivers can take you from Manila to Pulilan.
  • Rent a car – There are various car rental agencies in Manila, which can be a good option for those who prefer to drive themselves.

How to Get Around in Pulilan

The most common modes of transportation within Pulilan are tricycles and jeepneys. Tricycles are a form of motorcycle taxi and can be found throughout the town. Jeepneys are larger vehicles that follow a fixed route and can be used to travel between towns.

Where to Go Next from Pulilan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to spare, or if you’re looking for other destinations to visit near Pulilan, then here are some nearby places worth exploring:

  • Philippine Arena – Located in Bocaue, just a few kilometers from Pulilan, this arena is the largest covered multi-purpose arena in the world.
  • Obando Church – Located in Obando, this church is known for its fertility rites, which are celebrated every May.
  • Angono Petroglyphs – Located in Rizal, this archeological site features prehistoric rock art dating back to 3000 BC.
  • Manila – The bustling capital of the Philippines is just a short drive from Pulilan, offering more cultural attractions, shopping, and nightlife.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure-seeker, or a foodie, Pulilan has something for everyone. With its rich culture, natural attractions, and friendly locals, Pulilan is a destination that is definitely worth visiting.

San Isidro Labrador Parish Church, Pulilan's main church. San Isidro Labrador Parish Church, Pulilan's main church. Adriano Salvador Heritage House Adriano Salvador Heritage House A scene on the Carabao Festival A scene on the Carabao Festival