Sungkilaw Falls in Diwan, Dipolog City
Sungkilaw Falls is an amazing sight that many local and foreign tourists really love to visit and explore. It is described as an entirely new whitewater experience where the sightseeing pleasure never wanes. It lies beneath the mountains of Diwan, Dipolog City. It boasts a spring on the east part that flows to a very rapid fall down to a river.
Reasons to visit Sungkilaw Falls
The Majestic Beauty of Sungkilaw Falls: Visiting this attraction will allow tourists to view one of the most beautiful sight in Diwan. A view deck has been constructed to allow visitors to observe the white foamy water of the falls as it cascades through a formation of large rocks. It's a magnificent sight that will make one appreciate the beauty of nature. It's also a good spot to take a few scenic photographs. The view deck is around 30 meters away so your sensitive cameras will be safe from the splashing and spraying water.
Swimming at the Sungkilaw Spring: Folks who want to get wet and enjoy the water can take a dip at the nearby spring. This is the main swimming area for tourists and the spring has a current that flows directly into the waterfall. There are plenty of large rocks around which makes it a scenic swimming spot. But I do have to warn you to be prepared because the water is very cold.
Take a Dip at the Salt/Mineral Concentrated Water Well: A small detour on the trail to the majestic Sungkilaw Falls will bring visitors to a well with water that have high concentration of salts and minerals. The fascinating water of this well is said to have therapeutic properties so it might be the cure to some of your aches and pains.
Relaxing at the Falls: The local government has recognized the value of this natural wonder as a tourist attraction and has developed the area to provide comfort and convenience to visitors. For instance, the path leading to the falls is well paved and is well maintained. Rest houses, comfort rooms, and waiting sheds have also been built to help tourists to fully enjoy the waterfall. Hiking trails have also been cleared for folks who want to trek and enjoy the forested area near the falls.
Exciting Outdoor Sports and Adventures: The Sungkilaw Falls is near to the OISCA (Organization for Industrial, Spiritual and Cultural Advancement) forest park so visitors will have a great opportunity to try some challenging outdoor sports and adventures. This park is an ideal destination for folks who enjoy camping, trail trekking, bush walking, rappelling, and swimming.
How to Get There
From Dipolog city, you should go to the Satellite Market bus terminal. Then one should take a bus/jeep/truck bound or that will pass “Diwan” or “Cogon.” Inform the conductor that you wish to get off at the Sungkilaw intersection. Keep your eyes open and watch for a sign that says: “SUNGKILAW FALLS => 14 KM.” One should then negotiate with the motorcycle drivers parked near the waiting shed at the intersection for a ride to the falls.
Sources:
http://www.biyahengpinas.com/html/provinces/zamboangadelnorte.html
http://gogobibo.wordpress.com/2010/07/30/sungkilaw-falls-tour-diwan-dipolog-city/
http://annabano.multiply.com/photos/album/386/Sungkilaw-Falls#photo=56
http://annabano.multiply.com/photos/album/386/Sungkilaw-Falls#photo=76