Cebu Highlands Tour with Temple of Leah and Sirao Garden

Cebu Taoist Temple

The Cebu Taoist Temple stands on a hillside in the Beverly Hills district of Lahug, high above the city. It was built in 1972 by Cebu's Chinese community, and its tiered pagoda roofs, red columns, dragons and lanterns make it one of the most striking places of worship in the Philippines. Steps lead up past ornamental gateways and terraces to the main hall, with views across Cebu City to the sea.

Many visitors climb to the upper chapel, where worshippers light incense and seek guidance by casting wooden divination blocks. It is an active place of prayer, so dress modestly, speak quietly and follow any signs restricting photography inside the halls. Plan on about 45 minutes here. The temple is a good introduction to the Chinese heritage that has shaped Cebu's trade and culture for centuries.

Sirao Flower Garden

Higher up in the mountain village of Sirao, a family farm that once grew flowers for the city's markets has become one of Cebu's favourite day-out spots. Rows of celosia, also called cockscomb, bloom in vivid reds, oranges, pinks and yellows, and the cool breeze at this altitude makes a pleasant change from the heat of the city.

Is the Sirao Flower Garden worth visiting? For photographers and families it is a joy: colourful paths wind between the beds, past windmills and playful photo installations, with the green ridges of the Cebu highlands behind. Allow about an hour to wander. Flowers are at their fullest from about November to May, and some sections are replanted in rotation, so the colours change throughout the year.

Temple of Leah

The Temple of Leah rises from the hills of Busay like a piece of ancient Rome above Cebu City. Construction began in 2012, when a local businessman decided to build this monument as a tribute to his late wife and their enduring love. Grand staircases, tall columns, lion statues and a large bronze statue of the lady herself give the site a dramatic, theatrical feel.

From the upper terraces the view stretches over Cebu City, the bridges to Mactan and the sea beyond. On this tour the Temple of Leah visit is timed for the late afternoon, when the stone glows golden and the city lights begin to appear. Spend about an hour exploring the halls and terraces, and bring a light layer, as the evening breeze at this height can be cool.

The Cebu highlands and practical tips

The highlands of Busay and Sirao sit roughly 30 to 60 minutes by road from central Cebu City, up winding mountain roads lined with small farms, roadside stalls and viewpoints. The area is part of the protected watershed that supplies the city, and its cooler air has made it a popular weekend escape for local families.

How to get to the Temple of Leah and Sirao without a car: public transport up the mountain is limited, which is why a guided highlands tour from Cebu City is the easiest way to see all three sights in one afternoon. The best time to visit is the dry season from December to May; on rainy days the views may be hidden by cloud, and the roads can be slow at weekends.