With all the different areas to visit in the Davao (Philippines), on the southern island of Mindanao is not on the typical tourist’s route, which is a dishonor because the area has a lot to present. Davao, the world’s second largest town, is an interesting cultural mixture of Chinese, Moslem, and local ethnic groups, but the town is predominately Christian. Here are four reasons to visit Davao.

1. Temples: The gigantic Long Hua Chinese Buddhist place of worship has eye-catching wooden floors, carved doors & walls. At very small distance you will find Taoist Temple, an incredibly red pagoda that homes holy icons of the “Taoist religion”. The Lon Wa shrine, set in surroundings of candle trees & bamboo with an imposing figure of the Buddha with his life portrayed in wood carving, is home to the Buddha of Thousand Arms. Monks can also read fortunes.

2. Shopping: “Aldevinco” Shopping Center of Davao City conceits itself for having a huge number of stalls and the variety of their offerings. It is the most excellent place for brass products, batik garments, souvenir shirts and ethnic accessories. They claim to have the most viable prices for pearls. Other favorite items consist of fresh and candied orchids, fruits. There are also several conventional malls.

3. Crocodile Park: This Park is residence to the largest crocodile in the country aptly named “Pangil” (jaws). In addition to this huge 19 feet crocodile and other breeding programs, this park has numerous species of crocodile, pythons, wild cats, turtles, monkeys, lizards, and varieties of foreign birds found inside the mini-zoo. An animal encounter show where tourists can get up close to the animals is held at every weekend in the park.

4. Eagle Conservation Center: The center is a refuge for the Philippine eagle and other animal’s resident to the Philippines. The exceptional and rare Philippine eagle is three feet in height and has a wing span of 7 feet. This Center is residence to 30 Philippine Eagles, 17 of which are confined bred. It also homes 4 species of mammals, 2 species of reptiles and 10 other classes of birds. Replicating a tropical rain forest environment, the Center offers visitors a sight into the country’s forest eco system. Although the exhibits are used first and foremost to help teach the Filipino citizens on conservation, the flair is also considered a chief tourist attraction of Davao City.