Mambukal Hot Springs | Bacolod

Mambukal Hot Springs are the primary therapeutic attraction within the Mambukal Mountain Resort in Murcia, Negros Occidental. These natural springs are fed by the geothermal activity of the nearby Mt. Kanlaon.

Visual Characteristics

The area features several man-made dipping pools filled with steaming, mineral-rich water. The pools are often surrounded by natural stone walls and tropical foliage. A distinct, faint scent of sulfur is present in the air, and steam can be seen rising from the water’s surface, especially during cooler mornings.

Location & Access Logistics

The springs are located inside Mambukal Mountain Resort, Brgy. Minoyan, Murcia.

Access: Situated approximately 31 kilometers east of Bacolod City.

Transport: Once inside the resort, the hot springs are reachable via a short walk from the main entrance and parking areas.

Operating Hours: 08:00–17:00 daily (dipping pools may have specific maintenance schedules).

Fees: In addition to the resort entrance fee (approx. PHP 50), use of the hot spring dipping pools typically costs an additional PHP 50–100.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Ishiwata Bath House, built in 1927 by Japanese architect Shinichi Ishiwata, marks the historical beginning of the hot springs as a destination. The water is sourced from the volcanic vents of Mt. Kanlaon, filtered through limestone and volcanic rock, resulting in high concentrations of sulfur and other minerals believed to have medicinal properties.

Key Highlights & Activities

Therapeutic Dipping: Popular for relieving muscle pain, skin ailments, and improving blood circulation.

Ishiwata Bath House: A historical landmark where visitors can experience a more private, traditional bathing setting.

Public Dipping Pools: Larger, communal pools with varying temperatures for general relaxation.

Sulfur Spring Source: A fenced area where visitors can see the actual boiling source of the sulfur water.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Facilities: Includes changing rooms, shower areas, and restrooms located near the pools.

Safety: Warning signs indicate maximum recommended dipping times (usually 15–20 minutes) to prevent dizziness or overheating.

Connectivity: Mobile signal is intermittent due to the mountainous terrain and dense canopy.

Best Time to Visit

Late afternoon or rainy days are the best times to visit, as the cooler ambient temperature makes the hot water more comfortable. Weekdays are recommended to avoid the high volume of local tourists during weekends.

Facts & Legends

Local residents often refer to the springs as "healing waters." A logistical fact is that the water temperature in the pools is strictly monitored and regulated by mixing it with cooler spring water to ensure it remains within a safe range for human immersion (typically between 38°C and 40°C).

Nearby Landmarks

Mambukal Seven Waterfalls – Within the resort

Butterfly Garden – Within the resort

Mt. Kanlaon Natural Park – 2.0km East

Murcia Town Center – 12.0km West