2025 Sibonga Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

Visiting the Simala Shrine in Cebu City was a deeply spiritual experience. The grandeur of the church is awe-inspiring, but it's the sense of peace and the stories of miracles granted by Mama Mary that touched me the most. As I entered, I felt an overwhelming sense of hope and faith that has drawn so many pilgrims here. The walls are adorned with letters of gratitude, crutches, and other tokens left by people who experienced healing and blessings. Witnessing the faith of others and the miracles attributed to the Blessed Virgin was humbling and inspiring. Travel Tips: 1. Visit Early: Simala can get crowded, especially on weekends. Arriving early allows for a more peaceful visit. 2. Dress Modestly: As a place of worship, dress respectfully to honor the sacredness of the site. 3. Pray Intentionally: Bring your prayers and petitions, as many people believe in the miraculous powers of Mama Mary here. 4. Explore the Grounds: Take time to walk around and soak in the serenity and beauty of the church’s architecture and surroundings. 5. Support Local Vendors: Outside the church, there are stalls selling religious items and local food—great for souvenirs and snacks. Simala is not just a tourist destination; it’s a place for reflection, gratitude, and spiritual renewal. #simalachurch #cebu #MiracleChurch #simalatrip

When you mention the town of Sibonga in the southern part of Cebu, what comes to mind is the Simala Church, which is flocked by thousands of devotees per day. Whether it is for a petition, thanksgiving, or some other reasons, devotees as far as you can imagine, gather in this place to pray. This has been an icon in itself hosting the miraculous image of the Our Lady of Lindogon. This is probably the most beautiful of all the churches in Cebu. From a distance, it looks like you are out of the country because of its notable structures.

One of the most well known and most visited churches in Cebu is the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist or widely known as Simala Shrine in Sibonga, Cebu. For Catholics, Simala Church is said to be a solemn place to reflect and a visit will give your life more perspective. It is also known as the Miraculous Mother Mary Church after their Virgin Mary statue was seen crying. This attracted thousands of people hoping their prayers will be answered after paying a visit to the church. Simala Parish Church is an active place of worship thus proper and modest dress code is required. For believers travelling to Cebu, this is a must place to visit. ☺️😇 #naturalwonders #simalatrip #churches #awesomepic #givethanks

I recently had the chance to visit the Simala Shrine in Sibonga, Cebu, and it was truly a special experience. Known as the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, the place is both peaceful and visually stunning. It's not your usual church—it's like a castle on a hill, surrounded by beautiful gardens, walkways, and views that give off a calm and spiritual vibe. The moment you arrive, you can already feel the solemn atmosphere. Pilgrims and visitors from different places come here to pray, give thanks, and ask for miracles. Inside, there's a section where people leave letters and crutches as testimonies of healing and answered prayers. It’s touching to see the deep faith people have. I also appreciated how well-kept the place is. Even though there were a lot of people, everything was orderly. The long walks and stairs might be tiring for some, but it adds to the feeling that you’re really making a small pilgrimage. If you plan to visit, make sure to dress modestly as a sign of respect. Also, bringing your own bottled water and light snacks helps, especially during hot weather. Overall, the Simala tour wasn’t just about sightseeing—it was a chance to slow down, reflect, and reconnect spiritually. Whether you're religious or not, it’s a place that offers peace and inspiration.

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Located in the southern part of Cebu Island, the Simala Church in Simala Village is a must-visit destination. The church is continuously expanding, making it incredibly spacious. The church's vastness and impressive exterior are awe-inspiring, but what truly draws visitors is the belief that wishes made to the Virgin Mary behind the sanctuary will come true. This has led to long queues of people every day. Additionally, the church features 13 colorful candles, each representing a different type of wish you can pray for. Simala Church is one of the most famous spiritual destinations in the Philippines, attracting countless visitors with their heartfelt prayers. If you're planning a trip to Cebu Island, make sure to check it out 🇵🇭

📅 Itinerary Day1：Taxi from Terminal 1 going to hotel accomodation Dinner at MCDO Sto nino Day2: Magellan Cross Attend Mass at Sto Nino Church Date at SM sea side Night date near CCPLEX Day3: Hotel going to Terminal 1 🏨 Accommodation Sampaguita suites 🍴 Food Recommendations Lechon Sea foods 📌 Tips

#springitinerary During our visit to Cebu, we made a meaningful stop at the Simala Shrine, also known as the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, located in Sibonga. This remarkable church, built in 1998 by the Marian Monks of Eucharistic Adoration, stands out with its castle-like architecture and serene atmosphere. The intricate details and expansive grounds provided a peaceful setting for reflection and prayer. Inside, we found areas to light candles and offer personal prayers, adding to the spiritual experience. Visiting the Simala Shrine was a profound experience, offering both spiritual enrichment and a glimpse into the devotion of the local community. #JammersTheExplorer #Philippines #cebu

📍Location: Simala, Sibonga, Cebu, Philippines 🎟️ Tickets: Free entry Open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM 👀 Why it’s breathtaking: The Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, commonly known as the Simala Shrine, is a place of peace, faith, and awe-inspiring beauty. Nestled on a hilltop, this majestic castle-like structure offers sweeping views and a serene atmosphere. Pilgrims come for spiritual healing, while visitors are captivated by the intricate architecture and the venerated image of the Virgin Mary. The peaceful surroundings are perfect for reflection and quiet contemplation. 💡 Tip: When visiting, be respectful of the sacred space. Wear modest attire—cover up with a shawl or long pants if you’re wearing shorts or skirts. The Miracle Wall is worth checking out for a glimpse of heartfelt messages from believers. Keep your camera on silent mode during prayer time. For a less crowded experience, visit on weekdays. #SimalaShrine #MonasteryOfTheHolyEucharist #CebuPilgrimage #SacredSanctuary #FaithInCebu #PeacefulCebu #SpiritualJourney #MonasteryViews #CebuLandmarks #HolyEucharistCebu

Simala

Love travelling with family This is our first travel with my family to Cebu . I will travel again with Trip.com #travel #familytravel #citydaytours #trip.com

The Miraculous church in Cebu. The Monestary of the Holy Eucharist or commonly knows as Simala Shrine.

# Discovering the Beauty of Cebu I just returned from an incredible adventure in Cebu, Philippines, and I'm still reeling from the experience! I really can’t believe to finally see you in real Cebu City. Thankyou so much you feed me with joy, happiness and best distination i could ever Experience.❤️😭🫶🏻 Cebu, you have stolen my heart! I'll always treasure the memories of my time on this stunning island. If you haven't been to Cebu yet, add it to your bucket list ASAP!!! #travel #simala #templeofleah

There were a lot of locals there! It was a very beautiful church! It's in Simala, far from Cebu City! It was cheap to get there by public bus! I recommend taking the bus from Cebu City while referring to the map app! It was very cheap, less than P200 one way. If you have time on your way back from Oslob, I recommend stopping by. ⚠️Caution: 1: Be careful with money! •The toilet is only at the entrance (charge: 20 pesos), so prepare some cash. •There are kids around handing out roses, and they often ask for money! •Motorcycle taxi drivers sometimes ask for a high price! 2: The sun is too strong, so a parasol is a must! ☀️ 📍Simala Parish Church #Overseas travel record #Cebu island trip #Cebu island sightseeing #Cebu island

First time going with my daughter. And I love this kind of experience. Because I feel the ambiance of holyness. #mamamaryofcebu

It is about a two-hour drive from Cebu City. There was no entrance fee. Perhaps because it was the beginning of the year, it was quite crowded. There was a particularly long line to enter the church, so I gave up going inside. Please note that since it is a church, you cannot enter in revealing clothing. Candles are sold, and there is a place where you can make offerings outside and pray. The exterior of the church is as impressive as visiting a castle in medieval Europe. It was larger than I imagined, and very impressive. In addition, the building and scenery are beautiful, so it is also a photogenic spot. It is said that wishes will come true through the Virgin Mary, and although I was not able to go there, there seems to be a real statue of Mary on the second floor of the main hall. When you visit, why not convey your wish? #cebu #0yentravelJanuary2025

Reflecting on my recent visit to Simala Shrine. Back in 2019, at a low point in my life, I visited and prayed for three things. Miraculously, they all came true, exceeding even my own expectations! Returning this year, I felt a deep sense of gratitude and thankfulness. It's a powerful reminder of the importance of faith and hope. 🙏 #SimalaShrine #Faith #Gratitude

Our visit to Simala Church was a peaceful and faith-filled experience. The grand, castle-like structure was awe-inspiring, and the serene atmosphere made it perfect for prayer and reflection. We felt a deep sense of comfort as we prayed before Mama Mary’s miraculous image and lit candles for our intentions. The testimonials of answered prayers displayed around the church strengthened our faith. Simala Church is a beautiful sanctuary of hope and devotion, leaving us with renewed faith and gratitude. It’s truly a must-visit for anyone seeking peace and spiritual inspiration. #travel #familytravel#myitinerary #citydaytours #museums #family #church #pilgrims #visitcebu #cebu

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#0yentravelnovember Simala Parish Church, located about 2 hours by car from Cebu City. You can't enter the church if you have too much exposed skin, so it's a good idea to bring a jacket or something❗️ The church was much bigger and more beautiful than I imagined💖 It's far from Cebu City, so I recommend joining a tour♪ 📍Barangay Simala, Natalio B. Bacalso S National Hwy, Sibonga, Cebu, Philippines #Philippines #CebuIsland

#familytravel Getting There - simala Attractions - church Hotels - Food & Restaurants - Shopping -

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Simala is worth the travel! Simala is a must visit place when you go to Cebu. This church’s structure is amazing yet peaceful. A place to pray and take pics! #100WaysOfTravel

On the way back from whale shark watching in Oslob, we stopped by the Simala Church. This church is one of the most beautiful churches in Cebu (although it's outside the city). The exterior features stunning and enchanting architecture. Inside, the sanctuary is adorned with paintings of Jesus, the Virgin Mary, and various saints. It feels very peaceful and is a great place for prayer. Highly recommended for those who follow Christianity. 📍Address: Simala Church