Regina Rica

Driving along Marilaque highway, We happen to come across Regina Rica, a sacred place of pilgrimage devoted to the Virgin Mary.

It's a common destination for tourist and bikers, we came across people  coming from different parts of the country/globe.  it was a rainy day when we drove along Tanay, Rizal.

Entrance is free, you just have to pay the parking fee of 20 pesos. No worries as they have wide parking spaces to accommodate large number of guests.

Souvenirs are on display and for sale at a reasonable price. There are rosaries, bracelets,holy figures that can be a worthy pasalubong to our kababayans overseas or to our families back home.

It's open from 8:00 to 5:00 pm. everyday. It has a great scenery of the mountains too, a wonderful place of prayer and reflection when you want to take a break from the noise of the city.

You can either enjoy the long walk on the elevated path leading to the giant statue of the Virgin Mary or take a shuttle (you only have to pay a minimal fee of 5 pesos per head) to reach the peak of statue. 

This is the shuttle that comes every 5-10 minutes to fetch the guests and take them to the statue of the Virgin Mary on top of the mountain.

The statue of the Virgin Mary in all its splendor! There's a deep feeling of calm and serenity once you reach the top of it. Well, taking pictures would always be a part of our every trip but take time to indulge in the peace this place has, a great place for contemplation. 

This is the church where they hold their masses and recollections. If you feel it's time to refresh your spiritual life or there's a need for soul-searching, this is one of the best places to visit.

A view of of the church taken from the top of the statue of the Virgin Mary.

As we drove back home, we came across a rice cake vendor. I'm not so familar with the names of the rice cakes she sells, the suman looks deli as well but we chose to buy the one that's wrapped in banana leaves (suman with latik I guess). 

All in all, I would definitely recommend that you visit the Regina Rica. There will come a time in our lives when we need to reflect, soul-search and contemplate, forget the chaos that we encounter from the busy city, and clear out the confusion we have in our minds. Remember, if you feel lost, it's because the heart and mind are not working in harmony, when they work together, you will find peace. And this place will bring you just that. Happy Trip!