The Chocolate Hills in Bohol are called so because during the dry season, the grass and vegetation covering the hills wither and turn a distinctive brown, making the landscape resemble an endless array of chocolate kisses or truffles.
The Unique Formation Behind the Name
The iconic Chocolate Hills are a remarkable geological formation consisting of over 1,268 perfectly cone-shaped hills spread across the island province of Bohol in the Philippines. These unusual and symmetrical mounds were formed through the persistent action of rainwater over time, which gradually eroded soft limestone. This natural process created the distinct shapes seen today.
How the "Chocolate" Name Came to Be
The name "Chocolate Hills" directly relates to their striking appearance during certain times of the year. While the hills are typically lush green during the wet or rainy season, they undergo a dramatic transformation as the dry season sets in. As rainwater washed away the surface soil and vegetation over millennia, the exposed limestone rocks are what remain. During the drier months, the once verdant grasses and plants on these hills dry up and turn a deep brown color. This transformation makes the landscape strikingly resemble rows of gigantic chocolate confectionery, specifically the popular Hershey's Kisses, thus earning them their delightful name.
To illustrate the visual difference:
| Season | Appearance | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Wet Season | Vibrant green, covered in dense grass and foliage | Ample rainfall supports lush vegetation, giving the hills a verdant look. |
| Dry Season | Distinctive brown, resembling chocolate confections | Vegetation withers due to lack of water, revealing the brownish limestone base. |
Beyond the Name: A Natural Wonder
Recognized as the Philippines' third National Geological Monument, the Chocolate Hills are a significant tourist attraction and a testament to natural geological processes. They are a crucial part of Bohol's identity and attract countless visitors annually eager to witness this unique landscape.
Learn more about this natural marvel: Bohol's Chocolate Hills
