Regina RICA
A serene pilgrimage site in Tanay, Rizal, featuring a towering Mama Mary statue and breathtaking mountain views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience peace and quiet
Regina RICA
Best Time
Experience peace and quiet
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene pilgrimage site in Tanay, Rizal, featuring a towering Mama Mary statue and breathtaking mountain views.
"A peaceful and spiritually uplifting experience amidst nature's beauty."
Modest Dress is Key
Cover up! Sleeveless tops, mini-skirts, and see-through attire are not allowed. :dress:
Respectful Silence
Inside the statue, maintain silence for prayer and meditation. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Towering Mama Mary Statue
Atop the elevated path
The iconic 71-foot-tall statue of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary, a breathtaking sight and spiritual centerpiece.
Chapel Inside the Statue
Interior of the Virgin Mary statue
A serene, intimate space for prayer and meditation beneath the grand statue, offering a unique spiritual experience.
Panoramic Mountain Views
Top of the statue area
Breathtaking vistas of the Sierra Madre mountains, offering a humbling and beautiful backdrop for reflection.
Modern Chapel Grounds
Main complex
A contemporary chapel offering a peaceful atmosphere for prayer, complementing the natural surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Dress Code and Donations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Modest Dress is Key
Cover up! Sleeveless tops, mini-skirts, and see-through attire are not allowed. :dress:
Respectful Silence
Inside the statue, maintain silence for prayer and meditation. :pray:
Donation for Facilities
Small donations for parking (₱20) and restrooms (₱10) are appreciated. :moneybag:
Bring Your Own Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Water is available but can be pricier. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
Modest Dress is Key
Cover up! Sleeveless tops, mini-skirts, and see-through attire are not allowed. :dress:
Respectful Silence
Inside the statue, maintain silence for prayer and meditation. :pray:
Donation for Facilities
Small donations for parking (₱20) and restrooms (₱10) are appreciated. :moneybag:
Bring Your Own Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Water is available but can be pricier. :water_wave:
Sheep Roaming Free!
Enjoy the sight of sheep grazing around the grounds. :sheep:
Souvenir Shop Available
Find religious items and mementos at the onsite souvenir shop. :gift:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Regina Rica for its peaceful and spiritually uplifting atmosphere, highlighting the impressive Mama Mary statue and the serene mountain views. While the site is free to enter, small donations for parking and restrooms are expected. Some note the need for modest dress and respectful silence in prayer areas.
"Regina RICA is one of the places you can visit if you are doing the Tanay loop. It’s actually a church and there’s no entrance fee. However, if you have a vehicle, there’s a ₱50 parking fee, and the toilet requires a ₱10 donation, which they are quite strict about. The place itself is very spacious and definitely a must-visit if you’re in Tanay. You’ll also see sheep roaming around the area, which adds to its charm. The highlight is the large statue of Mama Mary, and there are also different activities you can try. Overall, a great experience and absolutely worth visiting."
JC
"Blessed Sunday 🙏 The place is open until 5pm only and the last mass is at 3:30pm. Only few seats can accommodate inside so make sure to go there early.
They also have stations of the cross around the area and a payment of 20pesos for the parking fee. Candles will cost you 100 each same with the ribbon but these are optional. You can also take it home if you want.
There’s a souvenir shop inside too.."
April Delos Santos
"I visited Regina RICA a few weeks ago, and it was a peaceful and spiritually uplifting experience. Parking is accessible, and the site is well-organized for pilgrims and visitors alike. This place is more than just a tourist spot—it’s a pilgrimage site and sacred sanctuary nestled in the mountains of Tanay.
To reach the iconic 71-foot-tall statue of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary (Regina Rosarii), you’ll need to take a short walk uphill. The path is both calming and reflective, allowing time to prepare your mind and spirit. Along the way, you’ll notice footprints embedded in the pavement—each marked with a name. These likely belong to generous donors or pilgrims who have contributed to the sanctuary’s development, adding a deeply personal and communal touch to the journey.
Once you reach the statue—affectionately called “Mama Mary on the Hill”—you’ll discover that it has an interior chapel. Please note that modest clothing is required; mini skirts, see-through attire, and sleeveless tops aren’t allowed as a sign of reverence. Visitors are also reminded to keep silent inside the statue, as it’s a place for meditation and prayer. I saw two nuns seated quietly in contemplation, which added to the serene and sacred atmosphere.
Inside the statue is a small altar. Being there felt calming and intimate. When you step out from the top area of the statue, you’re greeted with a breathtaking view of the surrounding Sierra Madre mountains—a moment that feels both humbling and beautiful.
I also visited the modern chapel within the grounds. Though its design is contemporary, it still feels deeply sacred. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the natural surroundings, enhances the prayerful experience.
Regina RICA was established by the Dominican Sisters of Regina Rosarii and has become a popular destination for pilgrims and nature lovers. It offers a unique blend of faith, silence, nature, and healing, making it an ideal place to pause, reflect, and reconnect—whether you’re Catholic or simply seeking quiet time.
P.s. there's a 20 pesos entrance fee."
Lakbay Lihim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Cubao, take a bus bound for Tanay, Rizal. Ask the conductor to drop you off at Regina Rica. The journey typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic. Some travelers suggest asking for the specific drop-off point near the shrine.
Yes, buses from Cubao are the primary public transport option. Once you alight, you might need to take a short tricycle ride to the exact entrance if you're not dropped off directly in front.
Yes, driving is a convenient option. There is a parking fee of ₱20. The roads leading to Tanay are generally well-maintained, offering scenic views.
For a balance of convenience and cost, taking a bus from Cubao is recommended. If you prefer more flexibility, driving your own vehicle or hiring a private car is also a good choice.
The shrine itself is a prominent landmark. Buses will usually announce stops for Regina Rica. If unsure, inform the driver you're heading to the Mama Mary statue in Tanay.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Regina Rica does not have an entrance fee. However, a small donation is expected for parking (₱20) and for using the restrooms (₱10).
Regina Rica is typically open until 5 PM. It's advisable to check their official social media pages for any changes in operating hours, especially during holidays.
The last mass is usually at 3:30 PM. Arrive early to secure a seat, as capacity inside the statue's chapel is limited.
Yes, you can purchase candles and ribbons for prayers and offerings. These are optional and can be taken home if desired.
Yes, modest clothing is required. Avoid sleeveless tops, mini-skirts, and revealing attire out of respect for the sacred site.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
You can walk the elevated path to the Mama Mary statue, pray inside its chapel, enjoy panoramic mountain views, visit the modern chapel, and observe the sheep roaming the grounds.
Yes, families can enjoy the spacious grounds and the unique experience of the large statue. However, keep in mind the need for modest dress and respectful silence in prayer areas.
Restrooms are available on-site, with a small donation requested for their use. They are generally well-maintained.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but be mindful of others and avoid disruptive photo sessions, especially in prayer spaces. 
The atmosphere is described as peaceful, serene, and spiritually uplifting, offering a quiet escape from city life.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there isn't a formal restaurant, there is a souvenir shop that also sells some baked goods, like 'holy carbs' as one visitor humorously described it. It's best to bring your own snacks or plan to eat before or after your visit.
Bringing your own food and drinks is generally acceptable, but it's important to clean up after yourself and dispose of trash properly to maintain the sanctity of the site.
The surrounding areas of Tanay offer local eateries and carinderias where you can find Filipino cuisine. Exploring these local spots can be part of the Tanay loop experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunities are with the large Mama Mary statue, the panoramic mountain views from the top, and the unique chapel interior. The elevated path also offers great perspectives.
While general photography is allowed, be respectful of prayer areas and avoid intrusive photography that might disturb other visitors' spiritual experience.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for photography. Sunrise and sunset can provide dramatic skies, enhancing the beauty of the statue and landscape.
Drone usage policies can vary and may be restricted in religious or sensitive areas. It's best to check with the management on-site or their official channels before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the statue and the surrounding landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant mountain shots. A smartphone with a good camera is also sufficient for most visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be prepared to enforce the dress code and encourage respectful behavior, especially in prayer areas. Bringing snacks and water is advisable, as dining options are limited. The walk up to the statue is manageable for most children, but keep an eye on them, especially on warmer days.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers & Pilgrims
Attending the mass, which is held daily, can be a central part of a pilgrim's visit. The optional purchase of candles and ribbons allows for personal prayers and intentions. The overall ambiance encourages introspection and a sense of peace, making it a worthwhile destination for spiritual renewal.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2Beyond the main attraction, the elevated path with its inscribed footprints and the modern chapel provide diverse photographic subjects. Remember to be discreet and respectful when taking photos, particularly in areas designated for prayer. Early morning visits are recommended to capture the best light and avoid larger crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Regina Rica
For those who prefer more independence or are traveling in a group, driving is a viable option. The shrine has a dedicated parking area with a nominal fee of ₱20. The roads leading to Tanay are generally well-maintained, offering a pleasant drive with scenic views of the countryside. If you're not driving, consider hiring a private car or van for a more comfortable and direct trip, especially if you plan to explore other attractions in the Tanay area as part of a 'Tanay loop'.
Once you arrive near the vicinity, a short tricycle ride might be necessary to reach the exact entrance of the shrine, depending on where the bus or car drops you off. This makes planning your transport a key part of your visit to ensure a hassle-free experience.
The Spiritual and Architectural Significance
The journey to the statue involves an elevated path, designed to be a reflective walk for pilgrims. Along this path, visitors may notice footprints embedded in the pavement, each marked with a name, symbolizing the contributions and prayers of those who have supported the sanctuary. This adds a deeply personal and communal layer to the pilgrimage experience.
Beyond the main statue, the complex features a modern chapel with a contemporary design that still exudes a sacred atmosphere. The blend of spiritual devotion, the serene natural surroundings of the Sierra Madre mountains, and the thoughtful design of the site contribute to its reputation as a place of faith, silence, nature, and healing.
Photography at Regina Rica
+2While photography is generally permitted, it's crucial to be mindful of the site's sacred nature. Visitors are encouraged to maintain a respectful demeanor, particularly within the chapels and prayer areas. Avoid disruptive photo sessions that might disturb the peace and contemplation of other pilgrims. The elevated path leading to the statue also offers interesting angles and compositions, with the embedded footprints adding a unique detail to shots.
For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the 'golden hours' – early morning or late afternoon. The softer light minimizes harsh shadows and enhances the colors of the landscape and the statue. While a smartphone camera can capture the essence of the place, a wide-angle lens on a DSLR or mirrorless camera would be ideal for encompassing the vastness of the statue and the surrounding scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit