One of UNESCO’s World Heritage Site and the Philippines’ official nominee to the new 7 wonders of nature is the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. It was popularly known for its lush old growth tropical forest, interesting wildlife, pristine white sand beaches and unspoiled natural beauty. It is located in Bahile, in the west coast of Palawan, and was formerly called St. Paul Subterranean River National Park because it forms part of the lush and limestone-filled Mount Saint Paul. It is also considered one of the longest underground river of the world. The best features of this underground river are its limestone karst mountain landscape with major formations of stalactite and stalagmites, and several chambers. It also winds through a cave before flowing directly into the South China Sea.

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is one of the most distinguished biodiversity conservation areas of the Philippines. Two-third of the place is covered by lush tropical rainforest from the shoreline to the highest peak, and one-third is thinly vegetated karst limestone. It has become a habitat for thousands of variety of flora and fauna including endangered species. The park was declared a premier ecotourism destination and has been inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites for its outstanding universal value and ecological significance as a natural site of intense beauty. It’s the longest navigable underground river and reputedly the most beautiful subterranean river in the world.

As a natural area, it has attracted an increasing number of conservationist, scientist, students, photographers, wildlife watchers and nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, mountain trekking, and exploring the deeper part of the forest. At the mouth of the cave, a clear lagoon is framed by ancient trees growing right to the water's edge. Monkeys, large monitor lizards, and squirrels find their niche on the beach near the cave. Bridges, trails, and boats provide access to the park and the underground river, and some accommodation and camping facilities are provided.

The Puerto Princesa Underground River is included in the 28 finalist to become the New Seven Wonders of Nature. The New 7 Wonders of Nature or N7WN are untouched natural wonders which have had no human intervention. People of the world will then have approximately 2 years to vote among the 21 Finalists for the Official New 7 Wonders of Nature, to be revealed in 2011. So, whatever kind of traveler you are: a trekker, a tourist or a mere adventure-lover, you must never miss this World Heritage Site. This should be part of your itinerary.

Photos of the Puerto Princesa Palawan and the Underground River

Images via Google Images and DeviantArt