Manila North Cemetery - Image 1
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Manila North Cemetery

4
·117 reviews·Manila, Philippines

A historic cemetery where thousands live among the tombs, creating a unique 'city of the living and the dead'.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more respectful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Manila North Cemetery - Image 1

Manila North Cemetery

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more respectful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic cemetery where thousands live among the tombs, creating a unique 'city of the living and the dead'.

4
(117 reviews)

"It's a place where you'll see how people live in a cemetery, which is quite shocking but also interesting."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Respectful Exploration

Dress modestly and be mindful of residents. Treat it as a living community, not just a tourist spot.

📸 Photo Courtesy

Ask permission before photographing residents. Some areas may have restrictions.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Living Community

The Living Community

Throughout the cemetery

Witness thousands of families who call this historic cemetery home, transforming mausoleums into residences.

TikTokInstagram
Presidential and Historical Mausoleums

Presidential and Historical Mausoleums

Various sections

Explore the final resting places of Philippine presidents and revolutionary heroes, showcasing intricate architecture.

Instagram
Intricate Mausoleum Architecture

Intricate Mausoleum Architecture

Throughout the cemetery

Marvel at the diverse and often elaborate mausoleums, reflecting different eras and artistic styles.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Living City of the Dead

Manila North Cemetery is a unique urban landscape where thousands live among the graves. Be prepared for a bustling, unconventional environment. Respectful attire and awareness of your surroundings are key for a meaningful visit. TikTokInstagram

Photography Etiquette and Safety

While photos are tempting, some areas may request no photography. Be mindful of residents' privacy. Stick to main paths if you're concerned about safety, as venturing into smaller alleys might feel less secure. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more respectful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Residents are more active
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🇵🇭 it’s a sad reality and something straight out of a horror movie. Could you spend 24 hours here let alone live here? 😬 #travel #traveltiktok #manila #philippines #horror #horrortok #pinoy #philippinestiktok #fyp #viral #dnzhtravels
@dnzh.travels
126.7K likes • 3.3M views

🚶‍♀️ Respectful Exploration

Dress modestly and be mindful of residents. Treat it as a living community, not just a tourist spot. TikTokInstagram

📸 Photo Courtesy

Ask permission before photographing residents. Some areas may have restrictions. Reddit

Si creian haberlo visto todo hoy les traigo esta cronica desde el cementerio chini de Manila. Hoy no veran algo más impresionante. #manila #muertos #china
@gustavobolivarmoreno
114.7K likes • 1.7M views
Primul loc din lumea asta care m-a lăsat fără cuvinte. Manila North Cemetery este cel mai mare cimitir din Manila, Filipine. A fost inaugurat în 1904 și se întinde pe peste 54 de hectare. Peste 8000 de familii trăiesc chiar printre mausolee, transformând cimitirul într-un…oraș.
dianazamfirescu
426 likes • 44.2K views

💰 Local Tricycle Tours

Consider a short tricycle tour for a quick overview, but be aware of potential price negotiations. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven paths, so wear comfortable shoes. TikTok

Could you live in a CEMETERY in the Philippines? 🇵🇭
kryptotrekker
4.4K likes • 301.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Respectful Exploration

Dress modestly and be mindful of residents. Treat it as a living community, not just a tourist spot. TikTokInstagram

📸 Photo Courtesy

Ask permission before photographing residents. Some areas may have restrictions. Reddit

💰 Local Tricycle Tours

Consider a short tricycle tour for a quick overview, but be aware of potential price negotiations. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven paths, so wear comfortable shoes. TikTok

💧 Stay Hydrated

Manila can be hot and humid; carry water, especially during longer visits. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4
(117 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Manila North Cemetery is a place that evokes strong reactions, often described as both fascinating and shocking. Visitors are struck by the reality of thousands of people living within the cemetery grounds, transforming mausoleums into homes. While some find it overcrowded and dirty, others are captivated by the unique community and the historical significance of the site. TikTokInstagramReddit

"Went here not expecting that I would became a Teacher for a day. My friend instructed me to came here as she wanted to celebrate her birthday. I thought we would just be giving out foods around the area after she visits her family’s mausoleum. We joined the ATD organization for their Ang Galing program teaching kids with Filipino and English, how to read and write. It was a really rewarding day! I have never been to North Cemetery before and I was kind of shocked. People actually lived there and there’s literally feces everywhere."

Joneaj Luke Bibangco

"It was my first visit here for the reason of cremation located in the entrance just right in Manila South Green Park. It took 2hrs for the cremation. While waiting we visit the mausoleum of Poe family located in 24th St... Within the area located the Chinese General Hospital..."

Hermie D.

"You can go and visit inside without a guide. Tricycle drivers wait for you at the entrance, offering quick 30 minute tours inside.

I just walked on the main street / avenue and considered I have seen enough. Came back the same way. I was alone. I didn't enter the secondary alleys.

They have tricycles inside for the ones who live there. They even have small street shops where they cook. If you don't know it's a cemetery, you'd say it's a normal neighborhood from Manila.

At the gate you are requested to not take photos or videos inside."

Iuliana Marchian

What People Like

Unique living community
Historical architecture
Eye-opening experience

What People Dislike

Overcrowded and dirty
Intrusive living conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Manila North Cemetery is accessible by public transportation. You can take a jeepney or a bus heading towards the area. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. TikTok

While generally safe if you stick to main paths and are aware of your surroundings, it's advisable to be cautious. Avoid venturing into secluded alleys and be mindful of your belongings. TikTokReddit

Yes, you can explore on your own, especially the main avenues. However, some visitors opt for a short tricycle tour for a guided experience. Reddit

Many visitors find walking the main streets offers a good overview. For a deeper understanding, consider engaging with local residents respectfully or taking a guided tour. TikTokInstagram

Typically, there are no entrance fees to walk through the main areas of Manila North Cemetery. However, some services or specific tours might incur charges. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Manila North Cemetery is generally open 24 hours, though specific sections or services might have limited hours. It's best to visit during daylight for safety and better visibility. TikTok

Booking a formal tour in advance is usually not necessary. You can often arrange short tours with tricycle drivers at the entrance. Reddit

While the cemetery is technically always open, visiting during daylight hours is highly recommended for safety and to observe the community respectfully. TikTok

Photography is generally allowed, but it's crucial to be respectful. Avoid taking intrusive photos of residents and their homes. Some specific mausoleums or areas might have restrictions. Reddit

It's advisable to dress modestly out of respect for the residents and the nature of the site. Avoid overly revealing clothing. TikTok

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

It's a unique experience where you'll see thousands of people living among the graves. You'll find homes built within mausoleums and a vibrant community life. TikTokInstagram

Yes, you can find small shops and eateries catering to the residents. Restroom facilities might be limited, so plan accordingly. TikTok

The residents are primarily low-income families who cannot afford housing elsewhere in Manila. They have established a community within the cemetery. TikTokInstagram

Respectful interaction is possible, but always be mindful of their privacy and daily lives. Some visitors have engaged in teaching or community programs. Reddit

Beyond the living community, you can find the mausoleums of historical figures, intricate tomb designs, and the general atmosphere of a city within a city. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, small local eateries and street food vendors operate within the cemetery, serving the residents and visitors. TikTok

You can find typical Filipino street food and local dishes. It's a chance to experience authentic community dining. TikTok

As with any street food, exercise caution and choose vendors that appear clean and popular. TikTok

The cemetery is located in a populated area of Manila, so you'll find numerous restaurants and food establishments just outside its perimeter. TikTok

Bringing your own water and snacks is a good idea, especially if you plan to explore extensively. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The unique residential structures, the grand mausoleums, and the daily life of the community offer compelling photographic opportunities. TikTokInstagram

While not always strictly enforced, it's polite to ask permission before photographing residents. Avoid intrusive shots. Reddit

A versatile camera that can handle various lighting conditions, from bright sunlight to shaded areas, would be ideal. A wide-angle lens can capture the scale of the cemetery. TikTok

As in any crowded urban area, be aware of your surroundings and keep your camera secure, especially in busier sections. Reddit

Morning light can be softer and less harsh. Late afternoon can also offer beautiful golden hour light. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Manila North Cemetery with children can be an educational experience, offering a unique perspective on urban living and community. It's important to frame the visit appropriately, explaining that people live there and that it's a place of respect. TikTokInstagram Focus on the architectural aspects of the mausoleums and the concept of a community living together. Ensure children understand the need for quiet and respectful behavior. TikTok Consider a shorter visit during the day and stick to the main paths to ensure comfort and safety. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Backpackers

Solo travelers can find Manila North Cemetery a compelling and eye-opening destination. TikTokInstagram While concerns about safety exist, sticking to well-trafficked main roads and being aware of your surroundings can mitigate risks. Reddit Engaging with local tricycle drivers for a brief tour can offer insights without deep exploration into potentially less secure areas. Reddit Embrace the unique cultural experience and be open to observing the daily life of the residents with respect. TikTok

📸 Photographers

For photographers, Manila North Cemetery offers a wealth of unique visual narratives. TikTok Capture the juxtaposition of life and death, the intricate details of mausoleum architecture, and the candid moments of daily life. Instagram Be mindful of lighting, as the dense structures can create dramatic shadows. TikTok Remember to always be respectful when photographing residents and their homes, and be aware of any signage indicating photography restrictions. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Dual Existence: A City of the Living and the Dead

Manila North Cemetery is not just a resting place for the deceased; it's a vibrant, functioning community for thousands of living residents. Since the 1950s, many impoverished families have found shelter within its walls, transforming mausoleums and crypts into homes. TikTokInstagram This unique coexistence creates a surreal and thought-provoking atmosphere, where daily life unfolds amidst the tombs of historical figures and ordinary citizens alike. You'll see children playing, vendors selling goods, and families going about their routines, all within the confines of this historic cemetery. TikTokInstagram

This phenomenon highlights the complex socio-economic realities of Manila. The cemetery offers a form of affordable, albeit unconventional, housing for those who cannot afford traditional accommodations. While it may seem unusual to outsiders, for the residents, it is simply their neighborhood. TikTokInstagram Understanding this dual existence is crucial for a respectful visit, moving beyond the initial shock to appreciate the resilience and community spirit of its inhabitants. Instagram

Historical Significance and Notable Residents

Established in 1904, Manila North Cemetery is one of the oldest and largest cemeteries in Metro Manila, spanning over 54 hectares. Instagram+1 It serves as the final resting place for many prominent figures in Philippine history, including presidents, national heroes, and influential artists. Instagram Walking through its avenues, you can find the elaborate mausoleums of figures like former President Ramon Magsaysay and revolutionary leader Apolinario Mabini, offering a tangible connection to the nation's past. Instagram

The cemetery's architecture itself tells a story, with a mix of Art Deco, Neoclassical, and other styles reflecting different periods of its history. TikTok The older sections feature grand family crypts and mausoleums, some dating back to the early 20th century. TikTok Exploring these structures provides insight into the historical social stratification and the enduring legacy of prominent Filipino families. TikTok

Navigating and Experiencing the Cemetery

Visiting Manila North Cemetery can be an overwhelming yet fascinating experience. It's recommended to visit during daylight hours for safety and better visibility. TikTok While you can explore on your own, sticking to the main avenues is advisable, especially for first-time visitors. TikTokReddit The cemetery is quite large, and local tricycle drivers offer tours that can provide a quick overview of the key areas and the living community. Reddit

When interacting with the residents, always do so with respect and sensitivity. Remember that you are a guest in their home. Instagram Photography is generally permitted, but it's courteous to ask for permission before taking pictures of people or their homes. Reddit Be prepared for a unique urban environment that blends the solemnity of a cemetery with the vibrancy of a residential neighborhood. TikTokInstagram

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