Known as the ‘the city in a forest’, Puerto Princesa is the largest city in Philippines boasting of 253,982 hectares of land area. Located in the western island of Palawan, the city has been acknowledged several times as the cleanest and the greenest city in the Philippines.
What's in a Name?
When I first heard about the place, I was curious to know the etymology of its name - Puerto Princesa. Some people say that it was named after a princess-like maiden who roamed around the place on certain nights of the year in the ancient times. However, historical studies and insights reveal that the place was named after the 1864 born, princess Eulalia of Spain to Queen Isabel II and her consort, Dr. Francisco de Asis. But when the princess suffered an untimely death, the Queen changed her name to Puerto de la Princesa. Since then, the place came to be known by that name.
Nature’s Delight at Philippines
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park
Puerto Princesa is a nature lover's paradise. The city offers a wide spectrum of attractions ranging from beaches to wildlife but the most-visited and popular of all is the Underground River. Spread across 8.2 kilometres in length, it is undoubtedly the longest underground river in the world. Brimming with crystalline waters and stunning cave formations, the Underground River was once declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and now takes pride in being referred as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.
Photo credit: Carrie Kellenberger/FlickrThe river begins its course underneath a mountain range, through the St. Paul Underground River Cave and then moves out into the South China Sea. The journey through the cave is approximately 24 kilometers long. Capture the beautiful lagoon, framed by primeval trees growing next to the water's edge at the mouth of the cave. Look out for monkeys, monitor lizards and squirrels who reside on the beach near the cave.
Photo credit: Carrie Kellenberger/Flickr
Did You Know?
Did you know that the entire area of the Underground River is actually located in a national park? The national park is also home to more than 800 species comprising plants, trees, birds, mammals, reptiles and bats. Once you are here, enjoy bird watching, mountain trekking and exploring the dense forest.
Getting There
Waiting to sail in the clam blue waters of the Underground River? Simply book a flight to Philippines to discover this premier eco-tourism marvel and pack your bags for an exciting Philippines holiday.