Mount Makiling popular hiking destination

Mount Makiling is a dormant volcano located in the province of Laguna on the island of Luzon, in the Philippines. It is part of the Makiling-Banahaw Volcanic Complex and is considered a protected area, being declared as a National Park in 1933.

Mount Makiling is a popular hiking destination, with several trails available for different levels of difficulty. The mountain is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, with around 2,000 species of plants and 21 endemic bird species.

The mountain is also steeped in folklore and legends, with stories about a fairy maiden named Mariang Makiling, who is said to guard the mountain and protect its natural resources. The local communities also hold a deep spiritual connection to the mountain and its surrounding forests.

Overall, Mount Makiling is a significant landmark and natural treasure of the Philippines, both in terms of its ecological importance and cultural significance.