Mt. Timbak

Mt. Timbak is a 2,717-meter mountain in Atok, Benguet, Philippines, recognized as the third highest peak in Luzon. Located along the Halsema Highway, it is notable for its easily accessible summit, panoramic views of the Cordillera mountain range, sea of clouds, and proximity to the Timbak burial caves housing centuries-old fire mummies. The area is surrounded by vegetable terraces and pine forests, combining natural scenery with cultural heritage.

Visitors can expect a short hike from the Halsema Highway jump-off to a wide, grassy summit with 360-degree views of the Cordillera mountains, vegetable terraces, and sea of clouds at sunrise. The environment is cool and pine-covered with strong winds. Near the summit area are the Timbak Caves containing preserved fire mummies in rock shelters, view decks, and agricultural fields. The site is relatively undeveloped and visited for sightseeing, photography, and cultural viewing.

Mt. Timbak is known for the Timbak burial caves which house fire mummies dating back several centuries, associated with ancient Benguet burial practices. The mummies were created through a traditional smoking and preservation process and are among the Kabayan Mummies found in Benguet.

The mountain and its caves hold cultural importance for the indigenous communities of Benguet as ancestral burial grounds. The fire mummies reflect traditional beliefs and rituals surrounding death and ancestor veneration in the Cordillera region.