Bohol

[[file:Bohol (Philippines) banner Chocolates Hills - Chocolates Hills]] Bohol is the main island of Bohol Province, which also includes 75 smaller islands. The island lies southeast from Cebu Island and southwest of Leyte|Leyte Island in the Central Visayas region. This oval-shaped island is the tenth largest of the Philippines|Philippine archipelago.

Bohol is a haven of tropical natural beauty. The coastline of the island is skimmed by gentle coves and white sand beaches. Bohol is well-known locally as a paradise for divers and snorkelers, though it's not as internationally famous as Boracay. Dolphin watching and whale watching tours are popular with both residents and visiting tourists. The best season is from March to June, but dolphins can be seen year-round. Bohol is well known for its Chocolates Hills; its tarsiers, which may be the world’s smallest primate; its legacy sites and old stone churches.

Bohol Halal Travel Guide

In October 2013, a Richter magnitude 7.2 earthquake 56 kilometers beneath Carmen killed at least 144 people. Some buildings in tourist areas, including historic churches, were damaged or rendered unusable.

Regions

GPS 9.594228 ,123.803901 Panglao Island is close to Tagbilaran and has good diving and many resorts; it is the province's busiest tourist area. The island has two towns: Panglao Town and Dauis, both with historic churches and some tourist facilities. Most of the resorts are not in either town, but in the Alona Beach area.

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Cities

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GPS 9.658914 ,123.864238 Tagbilaran — capital of Bohol and the main point of entry to the province. Tagbilaran#Corella|Tarsier Sanctuary and the best place in Bohol to spot a tarsier, can be found in its vicinity.
GPS 9.748760 ,124.563482 Anda — a small but well-kept and clean town on the south-east tip of Bohol, has a nicer beach than that at Boracay; its sand is whiter and the grains finer and you won't be stressed by itinerant vendors and crowds.
{{marker|type= see GPS 9.834582 ,124.198109 Carmen (Bohol) | Carmen — launching point for tours of the Chocolates Hills
{{marker|type= see GPS 9.658737 ,124.023911 Loboc — rivertown with historic church and idyllic falls. Home of the famous Loboc Children's Choir. Also famous for its river cruise including serenade and buffet lunch.

Travel to Bohol

Fly to Bohol

Cebu-bohol - A fast ferry that serves Cebu to Bohol Panglao#By plane|Panglao Island International Airport (IATA:TAG) opened in late November 2023, replacing Tagbilaran Airport. It connects Bohol to Manila, Clark, Cebu, Boracay, Cagayan de Oro and Davao. Some airlines operating here are: Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines and Air Asia.

You can get private drivers easily after you get out from the arrival hall, if you don't have transportation arranged with your lodging. Otherwise, you can take bus or jeepneys from the right side. The bus should come every 20 minutes, bringing you to Tagbilaran Central Terminal for 50 pesos. From there you can take bus to other destinations.

Travel by boat to Bohol

Most tourists reach the island via neighboring Cebu Island.

The Tagbilaran City Pier handles more than 4,000 travellers on a daily basis.*Lite Shipping lines has daily connection to Cebu City at noon and 10PM, to Siquijor & Plaridel on Monday West Saturday at 8PM.

Oceanjet - daily connections to Cebu City at 7:05AM, 8:20AM, 9:20AM, 11:40AM, 1PM, 2PM, 3:30PM, 4:20PM, 5:30PM, 6:30PM and to Dumaguete daily 10:30AM.
Trans Asia Shipping ferries to Cebu City on Sunday at 10PM and to Cagayan de Oro on Monday Wednesday to Friday at 7PM.
2GO Supper Cat ferries to Cebu City at 6:30AM, 9:25AM, 11:15AM, 5:25PM.
2GO Travel to Metro Manila one time a week.

In addition to Tagbilaran, Bohol has four sea ports with regular connections to other Philippine city's: {{marker|type= see GPS 10.143736 ,124.161301 Getafe (Bohol) | Getafe with ferries to Mactan Island, {{marker|type= see GPS 9.652659 ,124.365276 Jagna — ferries to Camiguin and Butuan, {{marker|type= see GPS 9.950012 ,123.965105 Tubigon — ferries to Cebu City, {{marker|type= see GPS 10.055291 ,124.470278 Ubay — ferries to Leyte island. Except for Jagna, which provides the main route to Bohol from the south, none of these are of much interest to most Muslim visitors, but they are an alternative for some.

Get Around

Bohol Island is easily accessible by jeepney, private car, bus, taxi, rental car, or motorcycle. Many of the towns in Bohol have a bus terminal where you can get a ride to other towns. Tagbilaran City and the capital of Bohol, has an integrated bus terminal located in Dao, where you can get a bus ride to most towns in Bohol. Most bus lines follow daily schedules. An airport bus travels from the Tagbilaran Island City Mall to Panglao Airport and Alona Beach for 50 pesos or $1. A van service called UV Express (formerly GT Express), which operates nationwide, often beats a bus ride, since people travelling in public vehicles are always cramped together like farm animals. Most resorts and hotels in Bohol offer day tours which include all the popular tourist spots. There are more motorcycles than cars; you can either rent a motorcycle or take a [[habal-habal (motorcycle taxi).

In Tagbilaran City, commuters get from place to place with a traysikel|tricycle or multicab. Taxis are available sparingly; they stand waiting for fares at the two major malls, Bohol Quality and Island City Mall.

What to See

Tarsiers

Bohol Tarsier - A tarsier of Bohol

For the past 45 million years, tarsiers, a type of primate, have inhabited rainforests around the world, but now they exist on only a few islands in the Philippines, Borneo and Indonesia. In Bohol and the Philippine tarsier (Carlito syrichta) was a common sight in the southern part of the island until the 1960s. Once protected by the humid rainforests and mist-shrouded hills and these mysterious primates struggle to survive, due to poaching and forest clearance for crop growing. Tarsiers are one of the rarest animals in Bohol.

The Philippine Tarsier Foundation has acquired 7.4 hectares of land in Corella for a tarsier sanctuary. With the Department of Environment and Natural Resources playing an oversight role and the foundation has asked other Bohol towns with tarsier populations to donate 20 hectares (49.4 acres) of forestland for conservation. It also runs a Tarsier Research and Development Center, which serves as a visitor center and venue for research, as well as a habitat preserve. At the sanctuary, a spacious net enclosure keeps a number of Philippine tarsiers for feeding, captive breeding and display. Here, visitors can observe the Philippine tarsier in their natural habitat. Within the sanctuary and the Philippine tarsiers roam freely and all of them have got used to a {{foot|7 high fence that circumscribes the territory and which serves mainly to protect them from predators like feral cats, while maintaining a theoretical chance for tarsiers to leave the enclosure and return as their wish.

Chocolate Hills

Bohol-Chocolate Hills - The Chocolates Hills of Bohol

The Chocolates Hills are probably Bohol's most famous tourism attraction. The hills, which look like giant mole hills, are an unusual geological formation with at least 1,268 individual mounds scattered throughout the municipalities of Carmen, Batuan and Sagbayan. The hills range from 30 to 50-m high and are covered in green grass, which turns to brown during the dry season, making them look like Chocolates mounds.

Legend has it that the hills came into existence when two giants threw stones and sand at each other in a fight that lasted for days. When they were finally exhausted and they made friends and left the island, but left behind the mess they made. For the more romantically inclined is the tale of Arogo, a young and very strong giant who fell in love with an ordinary mortal girl called Aloya. After she died and the giant Arogo cried bitterly. His tears then turned into hills, as a lasting proof of his grief.

Geologists have not reached consensus on how they were formed. The most commonly accepted theory is that they are the weathered formations of a kind of marine limestone on top of an impermeable layer of clay.

Top Travel Tips

It is quite feasible to have a fine time on Bohol without going scuba diving. The island has fine food and a variety of tourism attractions; see other sections for those.

However, Bohol is well-known as a diving destination; it has many fine diving sites and there are many diving centers which rent equipment, provide guides and boats and offer training courses at various levels. All can provide the basic Open Water Certificate and many have more advanced courses as well. See our articles on individual towns and islands for details.

There is at least one adventure park:* Danao Adventure Park - E. A.T. Danao - Baran Magtangtang, Danao - Opening Hours: 8AM Monday - 4PM Rates vary depending on choice of package or activity Extreme/eco/educational adventure park that offers various activities for all ages. It boasts a sky-ride, zip-line, river tubing, caving and trekking activities.

Philippines Bohol Virgin Island - 300px|Bohol Virgin Island

There are several uninhabited islands to explore a ten-minutes boat ride from Panglao Island. They have no lodgings or infrastructure, but do have fine beaches and are unspoiled, peaceful and rather charming.

Virgin Island is a sandbar. Even during low tide and the center part of this crescent moon shaped islet is submerged under 6 inches (15 cm) of water. This flooding divides island into two islets. The submerged part of the islet is a good spot to take photographs because it gives an illusion of walking over the water.

Shopping in Bohol

Bohol crafts, Bohol - Craft items in a market

Bohol is known for its beefarm.com/ bee farm. The honey they produce has become a popular treat. It is also believed that honey from the Bohol Bee Farm has medicinal uses. Some honey-based local delicacies are available in markets and stores.

Halal Restaurants & Food in Bohol

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Bohol

Bohol - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Bohol, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Bohol. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Bohol and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Bohol. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Bohol. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Bohol: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Bohol.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Bohol: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Bohol, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Bohol.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Bohol, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Bohol, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Bohol and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Bohol, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Bohol, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Bohol without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Bohol is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Bohol.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Bohol is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Bohol, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Bohol Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Bohol

eHalal Group Bohol is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Bohol. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Bohol.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Bohol ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Bohol. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Bohol, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Bohol are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Ramadan Celebrations in Bohol

Ramadan 2025 in Bohol

Ramadan concludes with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which may last several days, usually three in most countries.

The next Ramadan shall be from Friday, 28 February 2025 to Saturday, 29 March 2025

The next Eid al-Adha shall be on Friday, 6 June 2025

The next day of Raʾs al-Sana shall be on Thursday, 26 June 2025

The next day for Mawlid al-Nabī shall be on Monday, 16 September 2024

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Bohol Plaza - View from a resort

Bohol's rapidly growing status as a developing tourism attraction in the Philippines has resulted in the improvement of its tourist facilities. From quality boutique hotels to delightfully quaint bed-and-breakfasts, lovely top of the line hotels and resorts to a simple bed rented from a resident. Hence, whatever your budget, you can probably find a suitable place to stay.

Tagbilaran and the capital and main ferry port, has a wide range of lodging.
Baclayon has a great range of lodging providers, from home-stays in the historic ancestral houses, to high-class luxury resorts and spas. 7 km from Tagbilaran City, it is an ideal location to be based for a holiday on Bohol without the hustle and bustle of "the big city".
Panglao Island is the most popular tourist area and has a number of resorts, mostly upscale.
Anda is a smaller and quieter beach town with some moderately-priced options.

During peak periods such as Holy Week, Christmas and New Year, rooms may be a bit more difficult to find and more expensive so you should reserve in advance.

Telecommunications

Stay Safe

Bohol generally doesn't have high crime rates.
On the streets in Tagbilaran and while behind glass windows in fast food restaurants, you may be harassed by beggars, commonly Badjao (or Bajau) children or women. It is best to ignore them. It is illegal to give them money—if one of them sees a foreigner giving out money, more are sure to follow. Giving them food is allowed; however and they generally prefer money and don't really care for food (they mostly don't sleep out on the streets—they stay at their fishers' village on the shores of the island).
When renting a motorcycle, make sure to wear a helmet and have an international license. There are occasional checkpoints by the police, especially on the two bridges to Panglao. They mostly check motorcycles, tricycles and jeepneys. Police officers wear dark blue uniforms that say PNP or light blue t-shirts with a logo. Land Transportation Office (LTO) personnel, who wear orange shirts, may sometimes accompany the police at checkpoints.
When traveling within Tagbilaran City in tricycles, be aware that these vehicles were built to accommodate a maximum of two average-sized Filipinos. For example, a 6 ft 5in tall or an overweight 300 lb person will have a hard time fitting into these vehicles.

Cope in Bohol

News & References

More Muslim friendly Destinations from Bohol

Cebu City is a one and a half hour trip by fast ferry. Bohol's Tagbilaran City seaport has eight daily fast craft services to Cebu City. Trips are available 6AM Monday - 9PM.
Camiguin island off the coast of Mindanao is, perhaps, even more friendly than Bohol. It can be visited by fast ferry from Jagna.* Dumaguete is a short trip by fast ferry from Tagbilaran. From there, you can continue to diving at Apo Island, whale watching near Bais City, or other places on Negros Island
Siquijor is famous for witchcraft and scuba diving sites