Exploring Bohol's Green Canopy: A Journey Through Bilar Man-Made Forest
As a travel enthusiast, I've always been drawn to the unique and the extraordinary. And the Bilar Man-Made Forest in Bohol, Philippines, is no exception. This enchanting forest is a testament to human ingenuity and a commitment to nature conservation.
A Verdant Canopy
The Man-Made Forest in Bilar is a captivating expanse of mahogany trees, spanning two kilometers where the town of Loboc converges with Bilar. This forest is a marvel to witness, with the branches of the trees arching overhead. The mahogany trees, uniform and towering, stand in such proximity to each other that they form a dense canopy that completely obscures the sunlight.
The ambiance within the forest is refreshingly cool and breezy, offering a pleasant sanctuary after touring around in the heat of summer. The rustling of leaves and the occasional chirping of birds add to the serene atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a quiet quick rest.
However, there's no designated parking area, which can be a bit of a challenge, especially during peak season when the roadside is often lined with tourist vans and cars. This can make capturing that flawless photograph somewhat tricky. To avoid the crowds, consider asking your driver to find a quieter section of the forest. They usually know the best spots where fewer people gather, allowing for a more peaceful experience.
A Bit of History
The creation of the Bilar Man-Made Forest was a proactive measure taken to counteract the severe deforestation that had occurred in the Loboc and Bilar regions. This environmental degradation was a result of the destructive farming practice known as kaingin, a slash-and-burn method employed by locals during the tumultuous times of World War II. The initiative to restore the forest began under the leadership of Bohol Governor Conrado Marapao in 1947.
The forest's restoration and subsequent success can be attributed not only to the robust support from the government but also to the active involvement of various community volunteers, students, and scouts. These dedicated individuals heeded the call to action from the 1960s through to the late 1970s, playing a crucial role in the forest's revival and preservation.
How to Go to Bilar Man Made Forest
Getting to Bilar Man-Made Forest by public transport is quite straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Remember, the forest is part of the highway, so be careful when getting off the bus. There's no designated parking space here, and vehicles passing through the forest can be very speedy.
- Start from Tagbilaran: This is the capital city of Bohol and is likely where you'll be starting your journey. It's a hub for public transportation, making it a convenient starting point.
- Take a bus: From Tagbilaran, you can catch a bus that's heading towards Bilar. The Bilar Man-Made Forest is a well-known stop on this route, so you shouldn't have any trouble finding a bus that will take you there.
- Get off at the right stop: The Bilar Man-Made Forest is a 2-kilometer stretch of mahogany trees that carpet the sloping ground where the municipality of Loboc meets Bilar. Make sure to let the bus driver know where you're headed so they can drop you off at the right spot.
- Be prepared to wait: If you're planning to move on to another location after visiting the forest, keep in mind that you may have to wait for the next bus. Public transportation in this area can be a bit unpredictable, so it's a good idea to plan for some extra time.
Remember, the forest is part of the highway, so be careful when getting off the bus. There's no designated parking space here, and vehicles passing through the forest can be very speedy.
Alternatively, you can book a countryside tour or join a group tour. Bilar man-made forest is usually included in these tours along with other tourist attractions such as Baclayon Church, Blood Compact Site, Man-Made Forest, Chocolate Hills, Loboc Floating Restaurant, Hanging Bridge, Tarsier Conservation and Butterfly Garden. Costs may differ depending on the number of people in the group and which sites are included. You can check your options here:
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long is the Bilar Man-Made Forest?
A: The Bilar Man-Made Forest is a 2-kilometer stretch of mahogany trees.
Q. Is there an entrance fee to the Bilar Man-Made Forest?
As this is just a public road, there is no entrance fee.
Q: What is the temperature like in the Bilar Man-Made Forest?
A: The forest's atmosphere is breezy and much cooler than the outside, providing a comfortable respite no matter how hot the day is.
Q: Why was the Bilar Man-Made Forest created?
A: The Bilar Man-Made Forest was part of a larger reforestation project initiated in response to alarming deforestation in the Loboc and Bilar areas.
Q: What are some nearby attractions to the Bilar Man-Made Forest?
While the Bilar Man-Made Forest is a destination in itself, there are also other attractions nearby that you might want to explore. These include the Loboc Ecotourism Adventure Park, the Loboc River Cruise, Loboc Church (also known as St Peter's Church).
Q: Are there accommodations near the Bilar Man-Made Forest?
If you're planning to stay overnight, there are several hotels near the Bilar Man-Made Forest. These include the Loboc River Resort, The Acacia Glamping Park, Marqis Sunrise Sunset Resort and Spa, and MJS Camp Site and Mountain Resort.
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