Welcome to Nagpana’s Webquest!

Plan your visit today! We’re open from Monday to Sunday. Explore Nagpana Falls, buy handcrafted treasures, and taste our local cuisine, all in one unforgettable experience! Experience the vibrant spirit and natural beauty of Nagpana, where skilled artisans craft unique items that reflect their heritage. Discover the stunning waterfalls as they flow into calm pools, inviting you to relax and explore. Enjoy the diverse cuisines that showcase local flavors. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, with an entrance fee of 20 pesos per head!

Origins of Sitio Nagpana

Barotac Viejo, Iloilo is home to Sitio Nagpana, a 3rd class municipality in the Province of Iloilo which has a culturally colourful past. Ati communities are located in various settlements in the Municipality. Nagpana Ancestral Domain in Sitio Nagpana, Barangay Lipata, and other sites like Purok Kapahuan in Barangay San Geronimo, Sitio Balaring in Barangay San Francisco, Sitio Karabangkalan in Barangay Sto. Tomas, and Sitio Panun-an in Nueva Invencion. The Nagpana Ancestral Domain, where the Ati community originally, is a focal point of their heritage, dating back to pre-World War II. The community is led by a Tribal Chieftain and Council of Elders, who play essential roles in maintaining peace and decision makings.

visual by LGU Barotac

Ati Heritage Reborn Through Nito Weaving

The Ati community has demonstrated resilience and cultural continuity through traditional crafts like nito weaving, which began in the 1970s. Inspired by a woven purse found during a visit to Guimaras, the Ati recognized the craft’s economic potential and brought it back to Nagpana, sparking excitement and a desire to master the technique. United in this effort, they collected nito vines and studied the purchased purse to understand its intricate patterns. Through perseverance and the wisdom of their ancestors, the artisans of Nagpana perfected nito weaving, enriching their cultural identity and providing economic opportunities. Today, the women of Nagpana weave their stories into each piece, preserving their legacy while empowering the next generation to embrace their roots. As demand for their crafts grows, the Ati take pride in knowing their artistry celebrates their heritage and fosters opportunities for the future. This thriving craft industry not only creates jobs but also strengthens community bonds, as artisans share skills and knowledge with younger generations. By passing down these traditions, the Ati ensure that their rich heritage continues to thrive and inspire for years to come.

visual by Tinukib & Souvenirs
visual by Sherwin Bachoco

Historical Influences

The Ati Indigenous Peoples, settled in the Nagpana Ancestral Domain, is known for its vibrant culture, including a deep spiritual connection with nature and rich oral traditions. Their cultural practices, which feature storytelling, traditional dances, songs, and crafts, reflect a profound reverence for the natural world, with beliefs in spirits residing in natural elements like trees and rivers. This cultural richness is rooted in their historical experiences and migration patterns, which have shaped their traditions and community life.The Ati Indigenous Peoples have historically prioritized environmental protection due to their deep connection to the land and its sustainable management. Recently, Ati women have emerged as leaders in green initiatives, advocating for their ancestral lands and promoting sustainable practices.

Activities and Accommodations

Nagpana, located 2.6 kilometers from the barangay proper and 12 kilometers from Poblacion, is a picturesque area characterized by sprawling hills, towering mountains, and lush forests adorned with vines and beautiful cascading waterfalls. This 946-hectare Ancestral Domain of the Indigenous Peoples of Sitio Nagpana is home to the stunning Nagpana Falls, where guests can engage in a host of activities while still having time to explore the breathtaking scenery surrounding the community. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature, enjoying the vibrant wildlife that thrives in this lush environment. Accommodations include a pavilion with two rooms, each able to host ten guests, complete with a toilet and bath that has running water sourced from a nearby spring. An exciting new feature is the 15-meter-long, 20-meter-high hanging bridge made of steel cables, designed to sustain foot traffic from both tourists and locals. Offering spectacular views of Nagpana Falls below, the secure bridge adds a thrilling element, swaying gently under the weight of onlookers and appealing to adventure seekers. The combination of stunning natural beauty, comfortable accommodations, and engaging activities makes Nagpana an ideal destination for anyone looking to connect with nature and experience the local culture.

Highlighted Features

Indigenous Handicrafts

Crafted Cascades presents exquisite artisanal treasures inspired by nature’s splendor. Each handcrafted piece tells a unique story of artistry and passion, celebrating the harmony between human creativity and the beauty of the natural world.

Nagpana’s Waterfalls

Experience the mesmerizing beauty of nature’s masterpiece at Crafted Cascades.
Our serene, cascading falls captivate with their majestic allure, offering a peaceful and refreshing escape
into the lush greenery and natural wonders of this place.

CRAFTED WITH PRIDE

Did you know?

Miss Universe Philippines 2020 Rabiya Mateo once wore a stunning pair of handcrafted nito earrings from Nagpana. These beautiful earrings, created by the talented artisans of the Ati community, highlight the rich cultural craftsmanship of Nagpana and have gained recognition for their intricate design and unique style. Each piece is a testament to the Ati’s skill and creativity, making their crafts both meaningful and fashionable.

visual by Rabiya Mateo
visual by Rabiya Mateo

Sip and Savor

Nagpana’s Hidden Brew

Did you know Nagpana is home to a unique coffee experience? The Ati community’s Kape Nagpana offers a taste of tradition, harvested and roasted right here in the mountains.Discover the warmth of the mountains in every cup of Kape Nagpana! Nestled within the Ati community, this unique coffee is grown and handpicked in the lush highlands, then expertly roasted to bring out the rich, bold flavor of robusta beans. Kape Nagpana isn’t just a coffee; it’s a story of heritage and skill, brewed fresh for those who seek an authentic experience. For a closer look at how this traditional coffee journey unfolds, visit the Crafts & Waterfalls main page to learn more — and don’t miss the chance to savor Kape Nagpana right here on your visit!

visual by Namias
visual by Namias

Meet the Artisans

In the heart of Nagpana lies a community of skilled artisans, each weaving their own story into the fibre of our culture. From master weavers to talented artists, our artisans bring traditions to life with every stroke of their brush, every twist of their loom, and every sculpted masterpiece. Renowned for their intricate weaving, the artisans of Nagpana are celebrated for preserving and showcasing their vibrant cultural heritage. Step into their world and immerse in the rich tapestry of craftsmanship that defines Nagpana.

Visitors snapshots

Capture the essence of Nagpana through the eyes of our visitors. Browse our gallery to see stunning snapshots of tourists exploring the majestic waterfalls, engaging with local artisans, and experiencing the vibrant culture. Each photo tells a story of adventure, beauty, and the unforgettable charm of Nagpana.

Photos credits to the owners.