Have you ever dreamed of a holiday that takes you beyond the regular options of Europe and Southeast Asia? South America, full of history and rich culture, shines like a hidden treasure. In the heart of South America lies Peru, where ancient secrets whisper stories as deep as any in our world. At its centre is Machu Picchu, Peru– a timeless city wrapped in mystery. Up in the Andes Mountains, an old Inca city stands as proof of human skill. Year after year, people travel from all over just to see it.
South America might feel very far away, but that is what makes going there so exciting. Yes, you will travel for many hours, but you will be happy you did. Imagine standing among old stone walls, each holding stories from the past.
But before we pack our bags and set off on this incredible journey, let us first understand what makes this ‘Lost City’ so remarkable.
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Imagine a magical city hidden high up in the mountains, built over 500 years ago – that’s Machu Picchu, Peru for you!
Located in Peru, South America, this ancient wonder is 2,430 meters above sea level. To give you an idea, it is more than our beloved Mussoorie hill station. Now, Machu Picchu is like a fortress but high in the mountains. It was likely used for studying the stars and farming. People lived there, but it was also a place for royalty. Its true purpose is still a mystery. This is the reason why this place feels special, as no one knows all its secrets.
Just like our own Taj Mahal, Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. What makes it truly special is how it was built using massive stones that fit together so perfectly that you cannot even slip a piece of paper between them. The best part? Time and earthquakes have come and gone, but these amazing buildings still stand tall and proud.
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Machu Picchu was built around 1450 AD during the Inca Empire. Experts believe it was either a royal estate for King Pachacutec or a sacred site for Inca leaders. Before construction, the Incas planned the site, building canals for fresh water. Without steel, iron tools, or wheels, they used stone, wood, and bronze to create temples, homes, and stone steps. Terraces were built to keep the city from collapsing in the earthquake-prone region.
Less than 100 years later, Machu Picchu was abandoned after the Spanish Conquest and forgotten, except by locals. In 1911, Yale professor Hiram Bingham rediscovered it while searching for another lost Inca city. His discovery brought Machu Picchu into the global spotlight. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the must-visit places in Peru.
Getting to Machu Picchu from India is quite an adventure, but don’t worry – it is easier than you may think! First, fly to Lima, Peru’s capital city. From Lima, take a short flight to Cusco, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Remember how we need time to adjust to the height in Ladakh? Stay in Cusco for 2-3 days so your body can get used to being up high in the mountains.
To reach Machu Picchu, take a train or walk the Inca Trail. Most people choose the train because it is quick and easy. PeruRail has different train options like Hiram Bingham, Expedition, and Budget. There are two places to catch the train: Poroy Station (a short taxi ride from Cusco City) or Ollantaytambo Station. Both trains take you to the small town of Aguas Calientes, which is close to Machu Picchu, Peru.
From Machu Picchu Station, you can take a 20-minute shuttle bus or walk uphill to the main entrance. Now, the train ride from Cusco to Machu Pichu takes around 4 hours, whereas the one from Ollantaytambo takes around 2 hours.
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Just like planning a trip to Ladakh or Kedarnath, visiting Machu Picchu, Peru requires some careful preparation. The best time to visit is during the dry season in Peru – April to October. You will need to book your entry tickets well in advance as they are limited to about 4500 visitors per day and around 5600 per day during the high season. Remember to carry your passport; it is required for entry and can even be stamped with a special Machu Picchu seal!
The weather here changes fast – sunny one minute, rainy the next. Bring clothes you can put on and take off easily. The altitude can affect anyone, so consider getting altitude sickness medicines from your doctor before leaving India. Most importantly, carry your camera – the views here are as spectacular as anything you will ever see!
If you love trekking, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu will be a unique experience. This famous trek takes you through ancient ruins, stunning mountain scenery, and cloud forests. While it is challenging, it is doable for anyone with basic fitness. The trail takes you through beautiful mountain passes. The best part? You will walk through the Sun Gate early in the morning, walking the same path the Inca people used long ago.
Remember to book well in advance – permits sell out months ahead! To hike Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu, you need special tickets. The Huayna Picchu ticket is limited to 200 people daily, while the Machu Picchu Mountain ticket allows 400 visitors per day.
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To truly experience Machu Picchu, Peru plan your route through the site carefully. What makes Machu Picchu special is its perfect spot on a mountaintop, with tall green mountains nearby. The Incas built wonderful temples there, using stones cut so well that they still stand today. Walking through it makes you feel like you have travelled back in time.
Take time to sit and absorb the atmosphere – find a quiet spot and just observe. Watch how the light changes over the stone walls, listen to the wind whistling through the ancient corridors and imagine what life was like here centuries ago.
If you are physically fit, consider hiking Huayna Picchu – the mountain you see in classic Machu Picchu photos or Machu Picchu Mountain. Both offer incredible views of the site from above, though they require separate tickets and should be booked months in advance.
Here are some insider tips that will help you make your visit extra special.
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The stone walls of Machu Picchu have seen many sunrises, and they will be part of your journey too. Machu Picchu, Peru will take your breath away. From its huge size to how it was built and all its secrets – it is truly special. While planning your South America tour packages, remember that Machu Picchu is more than a tourist site—it is a symbol of human skill and effort. So, are you ready to check this wonder off your bucket list? After all, some places in the world simply must be seen to be believed – and Machu Picchu is definitely one of them!
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