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 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.
What is the history of the man-made forest in Bohol?
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 here by public transport is quite straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- 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.
Is there a parking area?
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.
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How much is the entrance fee?
As this is just a public road, there is no entrance fee.
How to book a tour to the Bilar man-made forest?
If you prefer convenience, you can book a countryside tour or join a group tour.
This attraction is usually included in these tours along with others 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:
- Bohol Countryside Tour
- Bohol Countryside Day Tour All in One Package
- Bohol Countryside Tour by Southwest Tours
- Bohol Countryside Tour with Mirror of the World
- Bohol Whale Shark Interaction with Countryside Tour (Whole Day)
Are there accommodations nearby?
There are several hotels and inns in Bilar town that you can stay in:
There are also some hotels and resorts in nearby towns. These include the:
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long is the man-made forest?
A: The Bilar Man-Made Forest is a 2-kilometer stretch of mahogany trees.
Q: What is the temperature like in the 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 man-made forest created?
A: This initiative 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?
While the 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).
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