Aritao

Nestled in the heart of the Cordillera gateway, Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya is the kind of town that surprises you with its charm, hospitality, and harmony between tradition and progress. This laid-back municipality is more than just a pit stop, it’s a cultural crossroad with a scenic backdrop of mountains, rivers, and rich heritage.

Aritao is the southernmost municipality of Nueva Vizcaya, sitting right where the plains meet the foothills of the Cordillera range. It’s often called the “Gateway to the Cordilleras” due to its access to the mountain provinces. With a mix of agricultural bounty and indigenous culture, Aritao thrives on farming, local trade, and tourism.

• Imugan Falls – A hidden gem located in Barangay Imugan, offering a refreshing escape into the forest with cascading waters and cool mountain breeze.
• Santa Clara Shrine – A peaceful pilgrimage site visited by devotees especially during Holy Week.
• Aritao Welcome Arch – A massive arch that symbolizes the town’s rich history and connection to the Igorot and Ilocano cultures.
• Paniki Falls – A scenic cascade accessible through hiking trails and surrounded by lush greenery.
• Imugan Ridge Eco Park – For nature lovers and photographers, this eco-park provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges.

Aritao is home to a harmonious mix of Ilocano, Ifugao, Kalanguya, and Pangasinense peoples. These groups have preserved their traditions, crafts, and languages, creating a colorful and welcoming community. The town values “Inayan”, a Cordilleran cultural principle rooted in respect, humility, and communal living.

While Ilocano is the most widely spoken, locals also converse in Kalanguya, Ifugao, and Tagalog. English is understood by most, especially in schools and town offices.

• Pinikpikan – A traditional Cordilleran chicken dish with a smoky flavor.
• Inlubbid – A sweet native rice cake wrapped in banana leaves.
• Fresh tilapia and river crabs – Sourced from local waters and served grilled or sinigang-style.
• Bugnay wine – Locally made wine from wild berries found in the uplands.
• Tinuno – Grilled meat or fish cooked over open fire, served during gatherings.

Panagsasalog Festival is Aritao’s signature celebration held every March. It highlights unity among diverse tribes through street dancing, native games, and agricultural showcases. The festival’s name comes from “sasalog,” meaning to go downstream, symbolizing cooperation and community.

Traditional gongs and bamboo instruments accompany dances like the Tayaw and Pattong, especially during festivities. Young locals also fuse these traditional beats with modern instruments in cultural shows.

• Cultural convergence of lowland and highland communities
• Gateway to the Cordilleras
• Scenic waterfalls and eco-parks
• Agricultural products like root crops, citrus, and rice
• Vibrant tribal festivals and warm hospitality