The province of Bohol, particularly Panglao Island, has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines in the last couple of years. While travelers mainly head to Bohol for its beaches, tarsiers, and the famed Chocolate Hills, it is also home to caves that are worthy of being explored.
One such cave is known as Hinagdanan Cave. Translated in English, "hinagdanan" means "laddered," and this gives you an idea of what to expect when you visit this cave.
Here's what you have to know about this limestone-filled cave.
Panglao Island's Hinagdanan Cave
![Hinagdanan Cave, Dauis, Panglao Island, Bohol, Philippines](https://d.travelerstoday.com/en/full/56714/hinagdanan-cave-dauis-panglao-island-bohol-philippines.jpg?w=720&f=0541218c89747a15345d6f7a968aa9ab)
Believe it or not, the Hinagdanan Cave was found by accident. According to Bohol's tourism website, the cave was discovered by a farmer who was busy clearing his land. The farmer found two holes on the grouond and built a ladder so he could see what's below.
The tourism website adds that the cave, due to its relatively hidden nature, once served as a hideout for locals who want to escape the Japanese during World War II. However, the locals were still discovered by the Japanese.
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What to Expect When You Visit
![Hinagdanan Cave, Dauis, Panglao Island, Bohol, Philippines](https://d.travelerstoday.com/en/full/56715/hinagdanan-cave-dauis-panglao-island-bohol-philippines.jpg?w=720&f=76df12b587abf06d9f9137eda5fd1f67)
Today, the cave can be entered and explored by guests one at a time due to its narrow entrance. This makes entering Hinagdanan Cave rather challenging, especially since the walkway can be slippery and slimy at times.
However, the challenging entrance leads to several stalactite and stalagmite formations that have amazed countless travelers. The cave is naturally lit due to the holes in its ceilings, making it easier to admire these formations.
There is likewise a fresh water lagoon found inside the cave. Visitors are allowed to swim in the lagoon and are highly encouraged to do so safely.
Getting to Hinagdanan Cave is rather convenient as many tour operators offer it as part of their packages. Do take note, however, that there is a fee that needs to be paid in order to access the cave.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader