A Portal to the Past: The Story Behind Hinagdanan Cave

Hi,Welcome back to another travel chapter this time, we are going underground into one of Bohol’s most captivating natural wonders. Last week, I shared my Bohol travel adventure, but this time, let me take you to a place that truly surprised me in Bohol at Hinagdanan Cave. Nestled in Bingag, Dauis Bohol. The cave is located on Panglao Island, a spot known for beaches and marine life but deep below its limestone surface lies a hidden world waiting to be explore.The cave is open daily from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM. The best way to reach Hinagdanan Cave is by renting your own vehicle. We used our personal car to roam around Bohol, but if you don’t have your own transportation, renting a motorcycle is a convenient option that lets you explore at your own pace. Tricycles are also available if you prefer not to drive yourself.

ᴇɴᴛʀᴀɴᴄᴇ ꜰᴇᴇꜱ

• Adults: 50 PHP
• Kids: 10 PHP
• Swimming Fee: Additional 75 PHP per person
• Affordable, straightforward and worth it

ᴀ ᴘᴇᴇᴋ ɪɴᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴀᴠᴇ’ꜱ ʜɪꜱᴛᴏʀʏ

Hinagdanan Cave holds more than just beauty it carries a story that reaches back centuries and even into World War II. During the Japanese occupation, locals used the cave as a hideout to escape danger. Its natural darkness and hidden entrance made it the perfect refuge. But the story of its discovery is even more fascinating. In the past, the entire area of Bingag was covered with thick vegetation. A landowner clearing his farm noticed two strange holes in the ground. Curious, he dropped a stone and was shocked when he heard a splash. Later, more openings formed when a large tree died, revealing what would become the entrance we use today. Locals carved a hagdan (ladder), which inspired the name Hinagdanan literally “laddered” cave. It’s incredible to think this natural wonder was discovered purely by accident.

ᴛʜᴇ ᴅᴇꜱᴄᴇɴᴛ ɪɴꜱɪᴅᴇ

The entrance is wide, but the first few steps remind you that you’re entering a raw, natural formation so mind your head because the ceiling is low. A metal railing helps you keep your balance, especially in slippery spots. At first, everything feels dark, but give your eyes a few seconds and the cave slowly reveals its beauty dramatic rock formations, glowing stone surfaces, and light beams shining down from openings above. No torch needed. The cave is well-lit, and the natural light from the two ceiling holes creates a magical ambience.

ᴛʜᴇ ᴜɴᴅᴇʀɢʀᴏᴜɴᴅ ᴘᴏᴏʟ

The highlight? A crystal-clear pool of cool, refreshing water. The swimming area is around 8 feet deep, so diving is not allowed, but it’s perfect for a relaxing dip. The water reflects the limestone ceiling and the lights, giving it a glowing, almost mysterious vibe. Only 50 visitors are allowed inside at a time, and entry is limited to 30 minutes to preserve the environment. If you’re not swimming, 10–15 minutes of exploration is already enough to appreciate its beauty. Look up those two holes that first revealed the cave centuries ago are still there. They now serve as natural skylights, adding to the cave’s magical atmosphere.

ɢᴇᴏʟᴏɢɪᴄᴀʟ ᴡᴏɴᴅᴇʀꜱ

Hinagdanan is a karst cave, formed through millions of years of nature's quiet work. Rainwater, slightly acidic, slowly dissolved the limestone beneath the surface, carving out passages, chambers, and rock formations. The stalactites hanging above were formed drop by drop each mineral deposit telling a story shaped by time.It’s a reminder that nature is the greatest artist.

ᴛɪᴘꜱ ꜰᴏʀ ᴀɴ ᴀᴍᴀᴢɪɴɢ ᴠɪꜱɪᴛ

• Wear comfy clothes and slip-resistant footwear
• Bring a waterproof camera or phone case
• Follow cave rules avoid touching formations
• Bring a towel and extra clothes if swimming
• Use insect repellent
• Visit early to avoid crowds

Hinagdanan Cave may not be the biggest or grandest cave in the Philippines, but its mix of history, geology, and enchanting beauty makes it a stop you shouldn’t miss. Whether you explore for ten minutes or swim for thirty, the experience is something you’ll remember long after you leave.

Thank you for reading and supporting my blog! I truly appreciate every one of you. A big thanks to @worldmappin for creating such a wonderful community where we can share our stories and adventures.

So pack your spirit of adventure, dive into the unknown, and let Hinagdanan Cave reveal its hidden magic one step beneath the earth.