Fondly called as the “Stairways to the Sky,” this marvellous work of the Ifugaos is often considered as the Eighth Wonder of the World. Some 2,000 years ago, indigenous people of the Cordillera mountain range hand-carved the slopes to utilize them for agriculture. People who know of this famous tourist destination can’t help but admire the industry and hard work of the ethnic group behind this amazing accomplishment.

These rice terraces represent the absolute harmony between man and environment. As such, the site is now a UNESCO World Heritage and is given utmost protection to preserve its unparalleled beauty.

Admittedly, visiting the Banaue Rice Terraces is difficult because it is situated in a far-flung area and you have to pass rough terrains and unpaved roads. If you’re coming from Manila, the trip will usually take more than 24 hours. However, I assure you that all your efforts are worth it. And if you’re still hesitating to travel here, you should read these five reasons why you have to see the rice terraces in person and up close.

1. Even the most high-definition photograph cannot compare to the luxuriant green scenery of the Banaue Rice Terraces. You have to feel the crisp mountain air and tread the fertile land to have most wonderful experience of your lifetime.
2. You will better appreciate the rich history of the place if you see it up close. In viewing the area, you can imagine how the Ifugaos painstakingly carved these towering mountains into a beneficial work of art. It is a living story of how generations of farmers and laborers worked together as a community to achieve this mesmerizing landscape.
3. You can learn some valuable lessons by observing some tribes and ethnic groups still living in the vicinity. Their lifestyle hasn’t changed much over the years and it will show you that these people don’t have to rely too much on modern technology to live on and deal with life. The whole world might see the Ifugaos as being left behind in time but for them, the preservation of their rich culture is more important than mindless and whimsical change.
4. The Banaue Rice Terraces is a perfect example of the balance of nature. The people living in the area take care of their surroundings and the environment provide them their food and necessities in return.
5. You will see the impact of climate change in this delicate site. Earthquakes and typhoons have already caused major erosions in some parts of the mountains. By seeing the damage first-hand, you can fully reflect on the role humans play in the destruction of the environment. Being more aware of these issues can help you to be more proactive in helping solve them.

The Banaue Rice Terraces is a true beauty to behold. You can travel back into the Philippine’s history and know more about the Filipino culture by visiting this site. Most importantly, you can discover a way of life that is very different from yours, thus giving you something to contemplate on – our relationship with nature is “give and take” and not “take it all, give nothing back.”