Bale Batu — Attraction in Arayat

One attraction. 50 pesos entrance. Good for an adventure feel or for that Thailand look. The stone pyramid feels like your classic abandoned stone house in a tropical jungle. Watch your step as you go up since it's a bit cramped. Only the front portion is good for pictures as the back side of the pyramid is already cracked. Some guys climbed further up near the tip of the pyramid on their own, but there's no need to if you're not athletic since the place to stand is also fairly at the middle with a good shot.

According to the guide, it used to be a house but the owners had already left for abroad, so instead it became a tourist spot of sorts. The side area also has steps to it, and there's a few bamboos. The surroundings also have that open jungle feel if you climb the stone wall enclosure on the side. Reminds me of a tree house, but made of stone, where kids can play pretend house a little.

There's a provincial, rustic cafe on the side in case you get hungry too.

The gate across Bale Batu where we parked is unique with the bird wing, good for taking a photo shoot for a fantasy feel.

Quickest stop if you're on a tour. The distance to get here is worth it if you like...

Bale Batu, or if you translate it rock house was built for around 40yrs by Apung Susing - a native Kapampangan.

The true inspiration to this work of art is still unknown nor validated. Several stories about the reason and inspiration of this structure has been a tale told within the area, some if which are

(1) Apung susing would want to build a temple - having it come to life in their 1 hectare land.

(2) Apung susing gone missing, and was believed to have been in the kingdom of Apung Sinukuan - the god that keeps today's Mt. Arayat. This is where he got the idea to built this structure we appreciate today.

For those who would like to visit, an entrance fee of Php 50.00 per head will be asked.

Aside from the structure, you will see some sculptures and bonsai within...

Saw the place this afternoon for some picture taking with my husband. The place is cool and quiet and green all around. The people in the entrance gate are warm and accomodating. For someone like me who have visited Siem Reap in Cambodia and have seen Angkor Wat and Angkor Tom in all their grandeur, Bale Batu can be considered Little Cambodia nestled in the foothills of Mt. Arayat. Although there are a few miniscule stupas yet they resemble those in Cambodia. If the pool and the Cafe will.be operational ,more visitors will be attracted to visit. There is a great tourism potential...