The Tarlac province in the Philippines is a destination that many people want to visit. Tarlac has something for everyone, from beautiful beaches and lush rice fields to historic churches and museums with relics from centuries ago. But what can you do there? What should you see? Where should you stay when visiting Tarlac? Read on for answers!
Brief History
Tarlac was first inhabited by the Negritos and Aetas. Tarlac’s history dates back to around 850 AD, when Tondo ruled most of what is now Central Luzon mainland as well as Tarlac Province.
The word “Tarlac” is derived from the Aeta term for a “talahib-like” plant called “Malatarlak.” The Aetas inhabited the western mountains of present-day Bamban municipality.
Tarlac Province was established in 1874 and was carved out from Pampanga and Pangasinan Provinces by the Spaniards. It was formed from Pampanga and Pangasinan Provinces, which explains why there are two distinct dialects spoken in the area: Kapampangan (by more than half of the population) and Ilocano (about 41 percent).
How to get there and what to do when you arrive in Tarlac Philippines?
Tarlacs are proud of their heritage, culture, food, beaches and historical sites so make sure you check them out! And don’t forget your camera or smartphone if possible – Tarlac is a beautiful place full of things worth sharing with the world!
Where to go
- Tarlac is home to many beaches, but one of the best known and most visited is Anawangin. This beach has pristine waters that are perfect for swimming or snorkeling in because it’s not too deep. It also provides a beautiful view of Zambales mountains in the background when you’re lying on the white sand. Nearby Pundaquit Beach isn’t as well known or touristy, so you can have it all to yourself! There are resorts near these Tarlac beaches where you can stay overnight if needed which makes them easier to visit before heading back north from Tarlac City at night time.
- If history interests you more than sunbathing then an easy day trip from Tarlac City is the town of Capas. This small town was the site of a famous World War II battle and there are many memorials and museums commemorating it. The Tarlac Provincial Capitol Museum is also worth a visit, as it has a large collection of ancient relics from Tarlac’s past.
- If you’re looking for some adventure during your stay in Tarlac then head to Santa Rosa Dam. Here you can go swimming, fishing, boating or just relax on the banks of the dam. There are also picnic areas and restaurants so you can make a day out of it!
- For those who want to see more rural Tarlac life, an interesting destination is Camiling. This small town is known for Tarlac’s famous Tugawe rice terraces, where small plots of rice are lined up on the hillsides in a very picturesque way. It is also home to many Tarlacs who work abroad and send money back home to their families here.
- To visit some more natural wonders of Tarlac you can go mountain climbing or hiking at Mt. Pinatubo near Angeles City in Pampanga province if you want an overnight stay there too! For those interested in history, another hike nearby leads through caves that were once inhabited by Japanese soldiers during World War II so it’s good for people with different interests visiting Tarlac Philippines together as well!
Festivals and Attractions
Tarlac is home to many festivals. Tarlac City has an Annual Tarlac Heritage Festival in February where Tarlacs and non-Tarlacs alike celebrate the history, culture and food of this province!
San Jose de Tarlac town also holds a fiesta for their patron saint Santa Rosa during August with street dancers riding floats through the streets while playing music.
Many people who visit Tarlac go on day trips or overnight stays near Clark Air Base which can be reached by bus from Tuguegarao in Cagayan Valley (Northern Luzon) via Baguio City (Central Luzon). There are museums here dedicated to World War II as well as other attractions like theme parks that make it interesting for Tarlac tourists.
Conclusion
Tarlac is a beautiful province full of Tarlacs who are proud to call it home. It’s also very accessible via bus or car from Manila, so you can easily see Tarlac on your next vacation!