Banaue Rice Terraces in Philippines

The Banaue Rice Terraces in Philippines one of the major tourist attractions of the archipelago, are 2000-year old terraces that were carved into the mountains of Ifugao by ancestors of the Batad native people. The terraces were carved as an attempt to provide level steps where the indigenous people could grow rice. Fully built with hand without the help of machines, the terraces are often regarded as one of the greatest engineering achievements of mankind. Banaue Rice Terraces in Philippines has been described as the eighth wonder of the world. It was recognized as a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1995.

Features of Banaue Rice Terraces in Philippines:

  -  Covering around 10,360 square kilometers (about 4000 square miles) of the entire mountainous terrain, Banaue Rice Terraces in Philippines are located approximately at an altitude of1500 meters (5000 feet) and found in the provinces of Mountain Province and Ifugao.
  -  The terraces are maintained by an age-old irrigation system from the rainforests above the terraces.
  -  Rice cultivation is still practiced although the newer generation is more inclined on developing the profitable hospitality industry. As a consequence, there is a gradual wearing away of the level steps which needs regular care and repair.
  -  The area offers hiking trails to both locals and tourists alike.