Where to go for a fun nature and food trip in Pampanga, the Culinary Capital of the Philippines

If you're looking for a place to spend a relaxing day in, look no further than Arayat, Pampanga.

Nestled in the mountains is the New Gintung Pakpak Ecopark, which offers a breathtaking view of Mt. Pinatubo, and a panoramic view of Arayat.

There is even a jungle and lake you can explore while you're there!

And since you're already at the Culinary Capital of the Philippines, you simply must try the food.

Kapampangan food is popular even to people who don't reside in the province because of its unique taste.

In an interview with Chef LN Castro, the proud Kapampangan said it's because they use natural herbs and spices only found in the mountains of Arayat.

Their dishes are the same ones cooked by their ancestors and they don't make changes to the recipes.

Among the dishes you can try at the New Gintung Pakpak Ecopark are the begukan, sisig, pakbet, kare-kare, and sinampalukang manok sa palayok.

The ecopark is open every Monday to Sundays, 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. You can contact them at 09218892626. —JCB, GMA News