Machu Picchu is one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in the world. The complex is divided into two distinct sections, the upper and lower. The upper section was more ceremonial in nature, while the lower section was more practical.
This lower section was largely residential and industrial. The Group of the Three Doors is in the lower section. In addition, there is the Temple of the Condor, which features a massive condor carving.
Intipunku
One of Machu Picchu’s most impressive features is Intipunku, which is the former main entrance to the Inca citadel. This enclosure features walls, niches, and windows that allow visitors a panoramic view of the site.
Today, it is the starting point of the Inca Trail and is approximately two kilometers away from Machu Picchu. The name “Inti Punku” means “Sun Gate,” and it is one of the best places to visit in Machu Picchu.
The path up to Inti Punku is about a one-hour hike from Machu Picchu. You’ll walk past delicate orchids on the way up, then pass by a stone staircase and the entrance to the Sun Gate.
Intipunku was once the main entrance to Machu Picchu, as well as a southern entry point into Cusco. The entrance to Inti Punku is guarded by the military and is dedicated to the cult of Inti, the Sun god. The site sits at a height of 2745 meters and is a vast archaeological site. Its windows and doors were held up by terrances.
A large rock, known as the Intihuatana, was carved as a solar clock and astronomical calendar. The structure allowed the Inca to predict the seasons and a time to harvest crops. Visitors are said to receive a boost of energy upon entering the site.
The Inti Punku Sun Gate is the first place where hikers on the classic Inca Trail can view the ancient citadel. A breathtaking sunrise over the citadel is a memorable experience. The trail is three to four hours round-trip and requires reasonable fitness.
The best time to visit Intipunku is between May and October. During these months, there is almost no chance of rain, so the hike to Intipunku is easy. In addition, the views from the top of the citadel are unobstructed.
Intipunku is free for visitors. The entrance fee to Machu Picchu is 152 Peruvian soles (47 US dollars). If you plan to hike the entire Inca Trail, you can also purchase a four-day tour that includes transportation, food, camping equipment, and a tour guide. The cost of the four-day Inca Trail is US $ 500 per person.
Principal Temple
One of the most sacred and magnificent precincts in the Inca City is the Principal Temple. This massive three-sided building is a masterpiece of Inca masonry. It’s believed that it was used to hold sacred ceremonies and sacrifices.
This incredible structure is made from heavy granite stone. The walls are so tight and precise that you’ll be amazed at the workmanship of ancient Incas. The massive stone blocks are also a testament to the ancient Incas’ engineering prowess.
This impressive structure is also a must-see while visiting Machu Picchu. Its four walls still stand, and it is considered to be the finest Inca structure in the area. While the temple itself isn’t the best place to visit, it is an excellent example of Inca craftsmanship.
The Principal Temple is located in the citadel, off the sacred plaza. It is one of the largest buildings at the site. The Principal Temple is another excellent example of advanced Inca masonry. It is also home to the Inca drawbridge, which spans a narrow gap in a cliff. It is accessible only to those with a permit.
The Principal Temple is one of the main public temples in Machu Picchu. It’s located on the Sacred Plaza and is an important Inca site. During the midday equinoxes, the sun is directly overhead the pillar. This ensures that the sun’s shadow never falls on the sacred rock.
As mentioned before, the Inca ruins at Machu Picchu have remained in perfect condition for nearly five centuries. One of the most impressive features is the Principal Temple, which was used as a royal retreat. It was never destroyed by the Spaniards, and many of the architectural features are still in good condition today. However, recent research has done little to advance the understanding of the site and its history.
The Sun Gate, also called Intipunku in the Quechua language, was the main entrance to the Inca citadel. This site is one of the best places to visit in Machu Picchu. Its windows look out over the Sacred Plaza and the mountains. These windows were used for religious ceremonies. A team from the Bingham Expedition discovered smashed pottery beneath the floor of the temple, which was likely part of ritual ceremonies.
House of the High Priest
One of the most impressive structures at Machu Picchu is the House of the High Priest, the third of three buildings in the Sacred Plaza. Despite its simple exterior, the structure is a great work of architecture. Its carved stonework is one of the finest in the Americas. It is believed to have been used for sacred ceremonies, and is a perfect example of Inca stonework.
This temple is home to one of the most mysterious structures at Machu Picchu, the Intihuatana. The pillar rock at this site mimics the shape of Huayna Picchu. The stone is also believed to have been used as a sundial, although it is difficult to be sure, since the Spanish conquistadors destroyed many of the Incas’ structures.
Another interesting building that is well worth visiting is the Temple of the Three Windows. This is a magnificent stone temple that sits on either side of the Sacred Square. The three windows are impressive, and the three windows are impressively symmetrical. The temple also has a number of altars and a massive altar. These suggest that there have been a variety of sacrifices made in the past.
Another interesting building to visit is the House of the High Priest, which is located across the main temple. While its name is a little deceptive, it may have been the home of an Inca priest. The structure features smooth stone steps, which allow the priests to reach its three altars. This building is a good example of the advanced engineering knowledge that the Incas had.
While you’re at Machu Picchu, don’t miss the Sun Gate. This structure is said to have controlled the port in the ancient Inca world. It’s a great place to watch the sunrise – it’s a breathtaking experience.
This beautiful building contains many beautifully carved niches. The craftsmanship is impeccable and it will leave you awestruck. You’ll never see another building that matches this. Its design is one of the most beautiful of any Inca sanctuary. It is a work of art that has captivated and inspired archaeologists for years.
Manu
One of the most amazing places in the world is Machu Picchu. With countless historical, cultural and natural charms, it has quickly become a favorite among travelers. This preference is reflected in surveys conducted by travel entities such as National Geographic and Tripadvisor. If you are planning a trip to Peru, make sure to visit this ancient site.
The ruins are open to the public, but tickets sell out fast, so plan ahead. During peak tourism, July and August are the busiest months. In addition, it’s often crowded on Sundays, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly. There is also a free entry day for Cusco residents. The site has a daily quota of 2,500 paying visitors. However, this number has recently been cut to only 1,116 visitors.
The main complex is divided into two sections. The upper section is ceremonial in nature, while the lower section is more utilitarian and functional. The upper section is the most impressive, and is also where you’ll find the Group of the Three Doors, the Royal Tomb, and the Intihuatana.
If you’re worried about crowds and want to avoid the most popular tourist attractions, you may want to consider visiting other sites in the area. If you can’t make it to Machu Picchu, you can still visit nearby cities like Arequipa, which is the starting point for a tour of the Colca Canyon.
In addition, you can visit Puno, the culture and folkloric capital of Peru. These places have all the same elements of history and culture, but without the crowded nature of the original site.
Aside from being an important historical site, Machu Picchu is also a spectacular natural wonder. Its unique location between two massive cerros makes it one of the most breathtaking places to visit in the world. You can hike to the top of Huayna Picchu, where you can find the Temple of the Moon, and visit the Great Cavern.
If you have the time and energy, you might also want to climb Huayna Picchu, which is visible in Machu Picchu photographs. You can enjoy spectacular views from the mountain, but be warned – it can be cloudy at times. Nonetheless, you’ll have a tremendous sense of accomplishment when you reach the top.
