Kaparkan Falls, Abra – A Short Story by George Anthony Lalin
Long before the Ifugaos built their rice terraces, unknown to mankind, Kabunian already created this piece of natural architecture. But He made sure this paradise was hidden, hidden from the prying eyes of men and their destructive instincts. So He decided to put it somewhere up in the North Cordilleras.
He placed big trees in it so the birds in the sky could not see. Gallant warriors as they were, He assigned the Tingguians of Abra to protect this masterpiece; mountain high terraces of clear blue waters cascading down towards the Tineg River, that is KAPARKAN FALLS!
It is approximately a thousand-meter high terraced water falls. It consists of numerous infinity of pools in different sizes and depths; from the highest down to the bottom – with the last just before the water drops into the river, as if they were made to fall in line from the smallest and shallowest, to the biggest and deepest.
On top is a one-foot diameter spring that supplies water to these pools. Once they are over-filled, the excess water forms the most mesmerizing cascades ever. Rainfalls boost the main spring’s supply and the seasonal springs nearby, that make the falls an even more enchanting site. It has also diverse flora and fauna. Big trees, vines, orchids and ferns are abundant in and around the area. A big Balete tree also stands tall and proud in the centre.
A terrace at the middle serves as a part of the trail of the natives of Caganayan, Tineg. Though there is already an existing road to Caganayan via Sitio Vira, Alaoa, the locals still traverse this path for a short-cut to the towns of San Juan and Lagayan.
A trek from Kaparkan Falls, Abra to the roads of Alimusgan, San Juan or Ba-i, Lagayan will take three (3) hours for them. This is actually a 10-kilometer unpaved and un-gravelled road that returns back to a muddy and slippery trail during the rainy season because of vegetation and disturbance of the road grade-line.
Being a seasonal falls, getting to Kaparkan Falls, Abra to see its best look is a little bit rugged and bumpy. From Bangued, the capital town of Abra, you can hop on a dirt bike or board a Monster Jeepney for that 45-kilometer trip.
You can also ride aboard any conveyance until the Alimusgan Junction then trek that 10-kilometer trail for five (5) hours, one way. But it’s worth the effort anyway.
KAPARKAN FALLS, ABRA is a raw natural wonder. It is best to come when the monsoon rains start to fall from July onwards till October. As of now, there is limited transportation available because of the terrain.
How to get to Kaparkan Falls, Abra
Abramazing Tours has regular weekend trips to the Falls during the rainy season. You will need to book your place on one of the Jeepneys.
Weekday trips can also be arranged.
The Jeepneys leave from the DPWH Compound in Zone 7.
There is plenty of parking space for those who arrive in vans.
If you arrive in Bangued by bus then take a tricycle to the DPWH Compound. Fare is P20 pax
To reserve a place on the Jeepney contact Abramazing Tours on their Facebook Page
What to take to Kaparkan Falls
Here’s a short checklist of what you’ll need for the day.
Dry Bag, Cameras, Spare batteries, Waterproof clothing if you topload the jeepney, Food for lunch, 2L Water, Bag for your trash.
Don’t forget that whatever you take make sure to bring it back with you. Leave No Trace
George Anthony Lalin
Born and raised in Abra, George is very passionate about the Province. He is one of the founding members of the #Abramazing group.
When not engaged in promoting the Province of Abra to the outside world he can be found riding his trail bike on some dusty or muddy track.
PIN to Read Later
PIN to Read Later
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Is it enjoyable to go to the falls at this time? Let’s say Dec 27? Pls advice. I need all the advice that i can get pls.
Kaparkan Falls are seasonal from July to October and are closed at the moment. You could explore other falls in Abra like Kili Falls or Piwek Rock Formations. Checkout the blog for relevant posts
Dear Sir George,
Warm Greetings!
I teach Tourism Management and handles almost all professional courses and electives related to tourism. At present I am teaching Domestic Tourism and I came across your posts about ABRA while doing my instructional materials and indeed your province is very mesmerizing. Maybe I could bring my students for immersion next year in your province?Is it safe for students to go there?
Hi Agnes, I replied by email. 🙂
Hey there! I just want to know if, can we use this story for any educational reference?
Yes you may use. Please Credit Silverbackpacker if any parts are used. Thankyou.
Sir, hindi pa me nakapunta riyan sa Falls na iyan, pero dahil sadescription ninyo sa Falls. Gusto ko na tuloy makapunta riyan.
Gusto ko lang malaman kung saannagmula yung pangalan ng Falls na iyan, may pinagmulan po ba iyan Sir, ilalagay ko sana ito sa aking blog. Maraming Salamat po.