Inti Punku facts for kids
People waiting for the sunrise at Inti Punku
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| Location | Peru, Cusco Region |
|---|---|
| Region | Andes |
| History | |
| Cultures | Inca |
Inti Punku (also spelled Intipunku) means "sun gate" in the Quechua language. It is an ancient site in the Cusco Region of Peru. Long ago, it was a fortress that protected the famous city of Machu Picchu.
Today, Inti Punku is also the name for the last part of the famous Inca Trail. This section leads hikers right to the amazing city of Machu Picchu. People believe the steps at Inti Punku were like a checkpoint. They controlled who could enter and leave the sacred area.
Inti Punku is one of the most important old buildings near Machu Picchu. It was likely the main entrance to Machu Picchu from Cusco, the Inca capital. Inca soldiers probably guarded this gate. Inti Punku was built to honor Inti, the Inca Sun god. Because of where it is located, the rising sun shines directly through the gate every year during the summer solstice. This site is very high up, at 2,745 meters (about 9,000 feet) above sea level.
Exploring the Sun Gate
Inti Punku is a wide area with windows and gates. These structures are supported by stone terraces. It is the first place where visitors on the Inca Trail can see the entire Machu Picchu sanctuary. From here, you can watch the sun rise over the mountains around Machu Picchu.
The path to Inti Punku is about 1.6 kilometers (1 mile) long. It goes uphill from the ruins of Machu Picchu. For many hikers, Inti Punku is the final stop on a longer journey. Some people complete a five-day hike to reach this point. Many tour guides suggest this hike for its amazing views of Machu Picchu.
To reach Inti Punku, you must hike along the Inca Trail. This trip usually takes about three to four hours to go there and back. There are clear signs along the trail showing the way to the Sun Gate. From Inti Punku, you can see several mountains, including Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu Mountain. You can also see the Vilcabamba/Urubamba River and Putukusi Mountain.
The trail to Inti Punku is open all year. However, there is more rain from November to April. Because the weather can change quickly, visitors should bring rain gear and sun protection.
Gallery
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Sign at a checkpoint near Willkaraqay showing the location of Inti Punku
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The first view of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku, before sunrise
