Gateway to the Inca Citadel: Inti Punku

The Inti Punku or also known as the “Puerta del Sol”, is considered one of the archaeological sites in Peru that occupies great historical and cultural relevance, its origins date back to the Inca era in which this site was the main post control for access and exit from Machu Picchu, as well as the Inka Trail.

Now, this historical monument is considered one of the most outstanding archaeological structures found near Machu Picchu, with an altitude of 2745 meters above sea level and with an ascent of 290 meters from the Inca city, which shows versatile architecture with windows and gates supported by terraces. Likewise, at certain times of the year you can see the sun rise at this gateway from the western heights of the ruins and the path that can be seen traversing the mountainside; From this point was the main Inca road from Wiñay Wayna and other sites further south. Therefore, it is well preserved and quite easy to climb, taking approximately an hour and a half round trip, in the same way in this era the Intipunku has become one of the best places to see the citadel of Machu Picchu and See the sun rise far from the horizon.

History of Inti Punku

Origins and original function

The origins of the Inti Punku archaeological site date back to the Inca era, which served as a religious or spiritual place for visitors and mainly as a control point where the entrances and exits to Machu Picchu were controlled. It should be noted that the construction of this place is the result of meticulous planning so that this same place is aligned with the various astronomical events present in the Inca civilization.

- Ancestral Origins: Although the history of Intipunku dates back to the rise of the Empire (from the beginning of the 15th century until the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century). This era stood out for its notable achievements in engineering, astronomy and architecture, such as the construction of the Intipunku.

- Architectural milestone: Although the Intipunku appears to be just a simple structure at first glance, according to scientific studies it has been proven that the Inca constructions are precise buildings which allowed each of the stones used in the structures to fit together perfectly and this without using tools.

- Celestial synchronization: One of the most intriguing aspects of the Intipunku is its astral alignment, which is strategically located on the crest of the mountain, this “Gate of the Sun” very precisely frames the sunrise during the winter solstice. Which, for the Incas this meant a deep connection with the stars, so this alignment represented a symbol of rebirth and renewal, playing a fundamental role for their spiritual beliefs.

- Main entrance: The Intipunku fulfilled a practical function, it served as the main entrance to the sacred city of Machu Picchu for travelers traveling the Inca Trail; Likewise, pilgrims and merchants passed through this door, marking the end of their journey to this Inca citadel.

Relationship with the sacred city of Machu Picchu

The IntiPunku played a fundamental role in the connection between the imperial city of Cusco and the citadel of Machu Picchu, so it was the main access used by those heading from the imperial capital to the southeast. Furthermore, this door became an emblematic symbol of the journey to the Inca citadel, marking the entrance to one of the most amazing archaeological territories in the world.

Military and religious use

In addition to its function as a control point, the Inti Punku also fulfilled its essential military role, in which it was guarded by the Inca army and served as a defensive barrier against possible threats. In turn, its strategic location on a ridge to the southeast of the Machu Picchu mountain allowed that, every year on the summer solstice, the rising sun illuminated the Puerta del Sol, this was also part of the cult of the god of the Sun and the which evidenced the deep connection of the Incas with their natural environment and their religious beliefs.

The Inca Trail and the Puerta del Sol of Machu Picchu

Those who head towards Machu Picchu after completing the journey along the Inca Trail are well received with the spectacular first view of the Inca citadel, seen from the Puerta del Sol in Machu Picchu. This means that Intipunku marks the end of the 4 day trek to Machu Picchu and from here, the trail becomes more accessible, not only physically, but because the path will now descend, in addition to the fact that at this point visitors are left amazed by the impressive panoramic views that unfold before your eyes.

How to get to Puerta del Sol?

From Machu Picchu

If you are exploring Machu Picchu, you can choose to visit this destination. To get to this emblematic place, follow the path that starts from the Inca citadel, crossing the agricultural platforms. This route is well marked with wooden signs at each point and covers approximately 2 kilometers, and continues almost parallel to the path that leads to the top of Machu Picchu mountain. On the other hand, the path that extends beyond Puerta del Sol for approximately 2 hours takes you to another beautiful citadel called Wiñaywayna; however, please note that access to this additional point requires an Inca Trail reservation.

From Ollantaytambo

If you want to opt for other alternatives to get to this place, you can choose the Ollantaytambo route, which is only 9 kilometers from the picturesque town of Ollantaytambo, which is located in the highest part of the archaeological site and has views of the Vilcanota River. Likewise, this route has 2 variants:

- Cusco/Ollantaytambo/Intipunku: This classic route begins in the city of Cusco and from which, taking only a collective transport to Ollantaytambo, you will arrive after 2 hours, therefore you will only have to undertake a 9 kilometer walk that It will lead you to the Puerta del Sol.

- Route Cusco/Ollantaytambo/Kachi Qhata/Intipunku: Taking the same route to Ollantaytambo, you can detour towards Kachi Qhata (taking a collective or private transport) and from this point, begin the ascent towards Intipunku.

What kind of activities can I do if I am in Intipunku?

More than knowing the history and the Intipunku offers a variety of activities for each person’s tastes, regardless of your interests, a visit to this fantastic place is an experience that will undoubtedly leave a mark on you. So if you find yourself in this place, you can do the following activities:

- Hiking: It is the main activity in this place, since to get there you have to walk a relatively long distance from the main entrance of Machu Picchu to Intipunku, along the way you will be able to enjoy a stimulating experience as you ascend to this viewpoint.

- Sunrise on the mountain: Most visitors choose to arrive at Intipunku early in the morning to witness the sunrise over Machu Picchu, making this place ideal for the best photographs.

- The best photos: This hidden place offers one of the best views of Machu Picchu, making it an ideal place for photography, so do not hesitate to capture the best angles of the ancient ruins Peru.

- Reflection and rest: The Intipunku can offer a quiet environment to take a moment of rest and appreciate the greatness of Machu Picchu, making it an excellent place to sit and enjoy the beauty of the site.

The best places you can visit besides Intipunku:

1. Huayna Picchu

The Huayna Picchu mountain is located at 2,700 meters above sea level and with an elevation of 300 meters above the Citadel of Machu Picchu, with truly attractive views and meticulously built trails to reach the top; So today, climbing this incredible mountain is one of the adventures of many travelers and one of the most requested, which requires visitors to purchase their tickets several months in advance.

Specifications:

• Route: Round trip trail from 45 minutes to 1 hour.
• Place: Mountain located north of Machu Picchu.
• Altitude: 2,720 meters above sea level.
• Difficulty: High, with steep stairs and some sections without railings.
• Best time to visit: Early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the sunrise from the top.

2. Temple of the Sun

The Temple of the Sun, built on a natural cave in the high mountain of Machu Picchu, is known for being a religious enclosure that dedicated worship to the god of the Sun. It is also a peculiar building with a circular shape where the windows stand out, niches and an entrance door. It is said that the temple houses the tomb of one of the most famous Incas: the Inca emperor Pachacutec, the visionary leader and person responsible for the construction of the citadel of Machu Picchu; On the other hand, if we focus on its infrastructure, it is mainly made up of granite, in times past it was adorned with gold and silver ornaments, but since the arrival of the Spanish to Peru they were looted until there was nothing left.

Specifications:

• Route: It is located within the archaeological complex of Machu Picchu.
• Location: Central sector of Machu Picchu.
• Altitude: 2,430 meters above sea level.
• Difficulty: Low, with an easy path to follow.
• Recommended time to visit: Any time of day.

3. Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo)

Aguas Calientes, is located on the shores of Machu Picchu and is a small city located at 2,040 meters above sea level, it is known as “Machu Picchu Town” due to its proximity to the Inca City, which is why it exhibits a feeling of tranquility. Likewise, it is surrounded by mountains and rivers, which makes it a unique landscape that contributes to its charm. On the other hand, the entertainment options in Aguas Calientes are varied, from ascending the mountains to strolling through the gardens or even enjoying the thermal baths; But despite the numerous activities, the biggest tourist attraction remains the Inca citadel: Machu Picchu.

Specifications:

• Place: Town located at the foot of Machu Picchu.
• Altitude: 2,040 meters above sea level.
• Difficulty: Low, with cobblestone streets and some unevenness.
• Recommended time to visit: Any time of day.

4. Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is located in the province of Urubamba and is 15 kilometers northeast of the city of Cusco, Peru. The journey to get to this place lasts approximately 40 minutes, but on the way you will be able to see various impressive landscapes. Upon arrival you will be able to see mainly the sown fields, which gave life to fundamental crops such as corn, potatoes, olluco, quinoa and the sacred coca leaf. Likewise, you will be amazed by the Vilcanota River, which crosses the main towns, it was considered by the Incas as the earthly representation of the Milky Way and how to forget the imposing Salkantay and Verónica mountains, divinities revered by the Incas, and of which they crown this captivating landscape.

Specifications:

• Route: Extensive valley located north of Cusco.
• Place: Cusco.
• Altitude: Between 2,980 and 3,200 meters above sea level.
• Difficulty: Variable, depending on the activities carried out.
• Recommended time to visit: Any time of the year, although the dry season (April to October) is the most recommended.

5. Moray

These agricultural platforms are a marvel of Inca engineering, they are made up of terraces built inside gigantic natural holes, these have a depth of 150 meters and house a series of platforms with an average height of 1.80 meters. According to historians, these buildings were an agricultural laboratory for the Inca empire. This is evidenced by the fact that each platform is skillfully designed with irrigation canals, which generates unique microclimates.

Specifications:

• Route: It is located 70 kilometers from Cusco.
• Place: Sacred Valley.
• Altitude: 3,385 meters above sea level.
• Difficulty: Low, with an easy path to follow.
• Recommended time to visit: Any time of day.