Just a few hours away from Metro Manila lies a peaceful mountain that offers breathtaking views, relaxing trails, and a memorable outdoor experience. My fiancée and I recently explored Mount Kulis, a rising favorite among hikers and campers in Tanay. Located within the beautiful highlands of Rizal, this destination combines nature, art installations, and adventure in one accessible place.
For couples, friends, and even beginners who want to enjoy hiking without tackling extremely difficult trails, Mt. Kulis is a great choice. Our experience was filled with scenic views, quiet forest paths, and unique activities that made the trip feel like more than just a hike.
Our Hiking Experience
My fiancée and I started our hike early in the morning to enjoy the cool air and hopefully catch the famous sea of clouds. The trail to Mt. Kulis is relatively straightforward, making it perfect for beginners and casual hikers.
The path consists mostly of dirt trails surrounded by trees, small hills, and open grassy areas. Along the way, we passed several scenic spots that already offered great views of the surrounding mountains. The atmosphere was peaceful, and the sound of birds and rustling leaves made the hike feel refreshing and relaxing.
Unlike more technical mountains, Mt. Kulis does not require ropes, rock scrambling, or intense climbs. Most of the trail gradually ascends, and there are many spots where hikers can stop, rest, and take photos.
Difficulty Rating
On a scale of 1 to 10, my fiancée and I would rate the difficulty of Mt. Kulis at 4/10.
Here’s why:
Reasons it’s beginner-friendly:
- The trail is well-established and easy to follow
- The elevation gain is moderate
- Most hikers can reach the summit in 1–2 hours
- No technical climbing is required
Challenges you might encounter:
- Some sections become muddy after rain
- Certain uphill parts can be tiring for first-time hikers
- The heat can be intense if hiking later in the day
Overall, we found the hike enjoyable rather than exhausting. It gave us just enough physical challenge to feel rewarding while still allowing us to appreciate the scenery around us.
The Stunning Scenic Views
One of the highlights of Mt. Kulis is its incredible viewpoints overlooking the Sierra Madre Mountains. When my fiancée and I reached the summit area, we were greeted by wide panoramic views of rolling mountains stretching as far as the eye could see.
During early mornings, hikers are often rewarded with a beautiful sea of clouds floating above the valleys. Although the weather can be unpredictable, we were lucky enough to see thin clouds slowly drifting across the mountains. Watching the sunrise illuminate the landscape was one of the most peaceful moments of our hike.
The summit also features several creative installations designed for photography. One of the most famous is the giant hand viewpoint, where hikers can stand on a large hand-shaped platform that appears to hold you above the mountains. My fiancée and I couldn't resist taking photos there—it made for a unique and fun memory.
Aside from the giant hand, there are also viewing decks, nests, and other artistic structures scattered around the area. These installations add a creative twist to the mountain experience and make Mt. Kulis especially popular for social media photos.
Activities You Can Do at Mt. Kulis
Mt. Kulis is not just about hiking—it also offers several activities that make the trip more enjoyable. My fiancée and I spent several hours exploring different areas of the mountain.
1. Photography
The mountain is filled with creative photo spots. From the giant hand to scenic viewing decks, it feels like a natural photography park in the mountains. Every viewpoint offers a different angle of the surrounding landscapes.
2. Camping
Camping is one of the most popular activities at Mt. Kulis. Many hikers bring tents to stay overnight and wake up to a sunrise above the clouds. The cool mountain air and quiet surroundings make it a perfect place to relax and disconnect from the city.
3. Sunrise and Sea of Clouds Viewing
Early morning hikes are highly recommended. Watching the sunrise over the Sierra Madre while clouds roll through the valleys is truly unforgettable.
4. Nature Appreciation
Sometimes the best activity is simply enjoying nature. My fiancée and I spent time sitting quietly on a viewing deck, taking in the cool breeze and peaceful mountain atmosphere.
5. Picnicking
There are several open areas where hikers can rest and enjoy snacks or packed meals while overlooking the mountains.
Why Mt. Kulis is Perfect for Couples
What made the trip especially meaningful for us was the peaceful and romantic atmosphere. The hike was not overly difficult, allowing us to walk side by side, talk, and enjoy the journey together instead of focusing only on the physical challenge.
Sharing the sunrise, taking photos together, and simply enjoying the quiet beauty of the mountains made the experience feel special. For couples who love travel, nature, and light adventure, Mt. Kulis is a wonderful place to visit.
Final Thoughts
Our hike to Mount Kulis in Tanay, Rizal turned out to be a refreshing escape from city life. With its beginner-friendly trail, spectacular views of the Sierra Madre, and unique photo installations, it offers an experience that blends adventure and relaxation.
Summary of our review:
Hiking difficulty: 4/10
Trail type: Beginner-friendly forest and dirt trail
Best highlights: Sea of clouds, scenic viewpoints, giant hand photo spot
Best activities: Hiking, photography, camping, sunrise viewing
For my fiancée and me, the trip was not just about reaching the summit—it was about enjoying the journey together and appreciating the beauty of nature.
If you are looking for a mountain near Manila that offers stunning views without an extremely difficult climb, Mt. Kulis is definitely worth adding to your hiking list.
Cheerio!
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