Social Items


Nestled at the foot of the mystical Mt. Banahaw, Lucban is often called the "Art Capital" and "Summer Capital" of Quezon. It’s a town where deep-rooted spirituality meets a vibrant, colorful explosion of culture—and enough garlic-scented longganisa to keep you coming back every weekend. Whether you're visiting for the world-famous Pahiyas Festival or a quiet spiritual retreat, here is everything you need to know about Lucban.



Where is Lucban?

Lucban is a charming, high-altitude municipality located in the northeastern part of Quezon Province, Philippines. It sits right at the foot of the majestic Mt. Banahaw, which accounts for the town's famously cool climate and lush, green landscapes.

Geographically, it serves as a gateway between the provinces of Quezon and Laguna. It is approximately 160 kilometers (about 99 miles) south of Manila, making it a popular destination for those looking to escape the humid heat of the metro without traveling too far.


A Glimpse into its History

Lucban has a deep and storied past that dates back long before the Spanish colonial era.

Foundation: Legend has it that the town was founded by three hunters from Majayjay who got lost and followed the song of a bird to a bountiful land. It was formally established as a parish in 1578 by Franciscan friars, making it one of the oldest towns in the region.

The Name: The name "Lucban" is derived from the Lucban tree (a type of pomelo). Local lore says that the early settlers found three such trees in the area and decided to name their settlement after them.

A Hub of Faith: Throughout the Spanish and American periods, Lucban remained a center for Franciscan missionaries. This religious influence is still visible today in the town's deep devotion to San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers.

Team Basti on Pahiyas Festival 2015

WHAT TO BRING FOR LUCBAN, QUEZON

Here are some things you might consider bringing with you for your day tour / adventure:

Shopee is my go-to app for things I needed like the ones above. If you'd like discounts and vouchers, you may get the best offers here:

What is Lucban Famous For?

Lucban is widely recognized for three main things: Art, Food, and Faith.

Pahiyas Festival

1. The Pahiyas Festival

Lucban’s biggest claim to fame is the Pahiyas Festival, held every May 15th. It is arguably the most colorful harvest festival in the Philippines. Entire streets are transformed into a kaleidoscope of colors as residents decorate their homes with kiping (colorful rice wafers), fresh produce, and local handicrafts to honor San Isidro Labrador for a bountiful harvest.


2. Culinary Heritage

Foodies flock to Lucban for its distinct flavors. It is the birthplace of Lucban Longganisa, a garlicky, vinegar-infused sausage that fills the town's air with its savory aroma. It is also the home of Pancit Habhab, a unique noodle dish eaten without utensils directly from a banana leaf.

Lucban Longganisa

3. Spiritual Pilgrimage

As the home of the Kamay ni Hesus Healing Church, Lucban is a premier destination for Catholic pilgrims. The massive 50-foot statue of the Ascending Christ overlooks the town, drawing thousands of devotees every year, especially during Holy Week, who come to pray for healing and spiritual renewal.


4. Cool Mountain Air

Due to its elevation and proximity to the rainforests of Mt. Banahaw, Lucban is often called the "Summer Capital of Quezon." It offers a refreshing break from the tropical heat, with misty mornings and cool, breezy evenings that feel more like Baguio than the lowlands.



Top Things to Do & See

Kamay ni Hesus Shrine & Grotto

1. Kamay ni Hesus Shrine

This is Lucban’s most iconic landmark. Spanning five hectares, this pilgrimage site features a 50-foot statue of the Ascending Christ.

The Climb: Be prepared to climb over 300 steps to reach the top. The panoramic view of the town and the lush greenery of Mt. Banahaw is well worth the effort.

Healing Mass: Many devotees visit specifically for the healing masses held by Fr. Joey Faller.


2. San Luis Obispo de Tolosa Parish Church

Erected over 420 years ago, this historic Baroque church is a testament to the town's resilience. While the exterior shows its beautiful age, the interior has been carefully renovated, providing a serene space for reflection in the heart of the town.

Team Basti on Pahiyas Festival 2015

3. Bukid Amara

For a change of pace, visit this 2.7-hectare flower and vegetable farm. It’s an Instagrammer’s dream with vibrant sunflowers and seasonal blooms. It’s a great spot to "breathe and be" while enjoying the cool mountain air.


4. Batis Aramin Resort & Adventure Park

Located just across from Kamay ni Hesus, this resort offers natural spring pools and outdoor activities like wall climbing and ziplining. It’s a favorite for families looking to cool off after a morning of sightseeing.


Lucban Food Crawl

You haven't truly visited Lucban until you’ve eaten your way through its streets.

Pancit Habhab: Traditional Lucban noodles served on a banana leaf. The rule? No utensils allowed—you "habhab" (eat) it directly from the leaf, usually with a splash of vinegar.

Lucban Longganisa: These small, garlicky, and vinegary sausages are world-renowned. You’ll see them hanging in bunches outside almost every store.



Kiping: Brightly colored, leaf-shaped rice wafers used as decorations during Pahiyas. You can eat them grilled or fried with a sweet sauce.

Free kiping during Pahiyas Festival

Hardinera: Think of it as the Quezon version of Meatloaf or Lechon de Leche—rich, savory, and usually reserved for special occasions.

Where to eat: Try Buddy’s (the original branch), Mustiola’s for home-cooked meals, or La Maison de Yelo Lane for a cozy, modern vibe.

Buddy's original branch in Lucban

How to Get There (from Manila)


By Bus (The most common way): Take a bus bound for Lucena City from terminals in Cubao (Jam Liner) or PITX. From the Lucena Grand Terminal, hop on a mini-bus or jeepney specifically bound for Lucban. The total journey takes about 4–5 hours.

By Van: There are UV Express vans in SM Calamba that go directly to Lucban.

By Car: It’s a 2.5 to 3-hour drive via the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX). Take the Calamba exit and head toward the scenic route passing through Los Baños, Pagsanjan, and Cavinti.

Team Basti on Pahiyas Festival 2015

WHERE TO STAY IN LUCBAN, QUEZON

Here's a list of hotel accommodation you can book ahead of your visit to Lucban, Quezon:



IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please message us on Facebook.

WHERE TO STAY IN QUEZON:

LUCBAN TRAVEL GUIDE: History, Things to Do and Tourist Spots to Visit


Nestled at the foot of the mystical Mt. Banahaw, Lucban is often called the "Art Capital" and "Summer Capital" of Quezon. It’s a town where deep-rooted spirituality meets a vibrant, colorful explosion of culture—and enough garlic-scented longganisa to keep you coming back every weekend. Whether you're visiting for the world-famous Pahiyas Festival or a quiet spiritual retreat, here is everything you need to know about Lucban.



Where is Lucban?

Lucban is a charming, high-altitude municipality located in the northeastern part of Quezon Province, Philippines. It sits right at the foot of the majestic Mt. Banahaw, which accounts for the town's famously cool climate and lush, green landscapes.

Geographically, it serves as a gateway between the provinces of Quezon and Laguna. It is approximately 160 kilometers (about 99 miles) south of Manila, making it a popular destination for those looking to escape the humid heat of the metro without traveling too far.


A Glimpse into its History

Lucban has a deep and storied past that dates back long before the Spanish colonial era.

Foundation: Legend has it that the town was founded by three hunters from Majayjay who got lost and followed the song of a bird to a bountiful land. It was formally established as a parish in 1578 by Franciscan friars, making it one of the oldest towns in the region.

The Name: The name "Lucban" is derived from the Lucban tree (a type of pomelo). Local lore says that the early settlers found three such trees in the area and decided to name their settlement after them.

A Hub of Faith: Throughout the Spanish and American periods, Lucban remained a center for Franciscan missionaries. This religious influence is still visible today in the town's deep devotion to San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers.

Team Basti on Pahiyas Festival 2015

WHAT TO BRING FOR LUCBAN, QUEZON

Here are some things you might consider bringing with you for your day tour / adventure:

Shopee is my go-to app for things I needed like the ones above. If you'd like discounts and vouchers, you may get the best offers here:

What is Lucban Famous For?

Lucban is widely recognized for three main things: Art, Food, and Faith.

Pahiyas Festival

1. The Pahiyas Festival

Lucban’s biggest claim to fame is the Pahiyas Festival, held every May 15th. It is arguably the most colorful harvest festival in the Philippines. Entire streets are transformed into a kaleidoscope of colors as residents decorate their homes with kiping (colorful rice wafers), fresh produce, and local handicrafts to honor San Isidro Labrador for a bountiful harvest.


2. Culinary Heritage

Foodies flock to Lucban for its distinct flavors. It is the birthplace of Lucban Longganisa, a garlicky, vinegar-infused sausage that fills the town's air with its savory aroma. It is also the home of Pancit Habhab, a unique noodle dish eaten without utensils directly from a banana leaf.

Lucban Longganisa

3. Spiritual Pilgrimage

As the home of the Kamay ni Hesus Healing Church, Lucban is a premier destination for Catholic pilgrims. The massive 50-foot statue of the Ascending Christ overlooks the town, drawing thousands of devotees every year, especially during Holy Week, who come to pray for healing and spiritual renewal.


4. Cool Mountain Air

Due to its elevation and proximity to the rainforests of Mt. Banahaw, Lucban is often called the "Summer Capital of Quezon." It offers a refreshing break from the tropical heat, with misty mornings and cool, breezy evenings that feel more like Baguio than the lowlands.



Top Things to Do & See

Kamay ni Hesus Shrine & Grotto

1. Kamay ni Hesus Shrine

This is Lucban’s most iconic landmark. Spanning five hectares, this pilgrimage site features a 50-foot statue of the Ascending Christ.

The Climb: Be prepared to climb over 300 steps to reach the top. The panoramic view of the town and the lush greenery of Mt. Banahaw is well worth the effort.

Healing Mass: Many devotees visit specifically for the healing masses held by Fr. Joey Faller.


2. San Luis Obispo de Tolosa Parish Church

Erected over 420 years ago, this historic Baroque church is a testament to the town's resilience. While the exterior shows its beautiful age, the interior has been carefully renovated, providing a serene space for reflection in the heart of the town.

Team Basti on Pahiyas Festival 2015

3. Bukid Amara

For a change of pace, visit this 2.7-hectare flower and vegetable farm. It’s an Instagrammer’s dream with vibrant sunflowers and seasonal blooms. It’s a great spot to "breathe and be" while enjoying the cool mountain air.


4. Batis Aramin Resort & Adventure Park

Located just across from Kamay ni Hesus, this resort offers natural spring pools and outdoor activities like wall climbing and ziplining. It’s a favorite for families looking to cool off after a morning of sightseeing.


Lucban Food Crawl

You haven't truly visited Lucban until you’ve eaten your way through its streets.

Pancit Habhab: Traditional Lucban noodles served on a banana leaf. The rule? No utensils allowed—you "habhab" (eat) it directly from the leaf, usually with a splash of vinegar.

Lucban Longganisa: These small, garlicky, and vinegary sausages are world-renowned. You’ll see them hanging in bunches outside almost every store.



Kiping: Brightly colored, leaf-shaped rice wafers used as decorations during Pahiyas. You can eat them grilled or fried with a sweet sauce.

Free kiping during Pahiyas Festival

Hardinera: Think of it as the Quezon version of Meatloaf or Lechon de Leche—rich, savory, and usually reserved for special occasions.

Where to eat: Try Buddy’s (the original branch), Mustiola’s for home-cooked meals, or La Maison de Yelo Lane for a cozy, modern vibe.

Buddy's original branch in Lucban

How to Get There (from Manila)


By Bus (The most common way): Take a bus bound for Lucena City from terminals in Cubao (Jam Liner) or PITX. From the Lucena Grand Terminal, hop on a mini-bus or jeepney specifically bound for Lucban. The total journey takes about 4–5 hours.

By Van: There are UV Express vans in SM Calamba that go directly to Lucban.

By Car: It’s a 2.5 to 3-hour drive via the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX). Take the Calamba exit and head toward the scenic route passing through Los Baños, Pagsanjan, and Cavinti.

Team Basti on Pahiyas Festival 2015

WHERE TO STAY IN LUCBAN, QUEZON

Here's a list of hotel accommodation you can book ahead of your visit to Lucban, Quezon:



IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please message us on Facebook.

WHERE TO STAY IN QUEZON:

CALABARZON Lucban Luzon Philippines Quezon Province Travel Guide

No comments

Let us know your thoughts!

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)