Explore ancient monuments around the world that offer a glimpse into humanity’s rich history.
Contents:
1. Tikal, Guatemala
The most striking feature of Tikal is its towering, steep-sided temples, which rise to heights exceeding 44m (144ft). However, what truly sets it apart is its lush jungle environment. Many of the plazas have been cleared, the temples uncovered, and some partially restored, allowing visitors to walk beneath the dense rainforest canopy while experiencing the rich aromas of earth and vegetation. Strolling along the broad limestone causeways created for facilitating traffic between temple complexes brings a sense of delight, where one may observe wildlife such as monkeys, agoutis, foxes, and ocellated turkeys.
Must-see attractions:
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tikal stands as a testament to the cultural and artistic accomplishments of the Mayan civilization. Notable spots include the breathtaking views from Templo IV, which rises about 65m (213ft) above the ground, and showcases key landmarks that provide insight into Mayan life prior to Spanish colonization. Other essential visits include Templo I (the Templo del Gran Jaguar), a magnificent 55m (180ft) limestone pyramid erected for the king, Ah Cacao, and the Gran Plaza, the heart of ancient Tikal’s community. Additionally, don’t miss the Acrópolis del Norte, the oldest known section of Tikal, with structures dating back to 600 BCE.
Covering an expansive area of over 142,330 acres, Tikal also significantly contributes to preserving Guatemala’s biodiversity.
When to go:
Tikal’s high seasons encompass December through April and June through July, with peak prices during the Christmas and Easter holidays. Conversely, the low seasons occur in May and August through September, which, while less crowded, coincide with the rainiest periods. October and November may see some rain but come with the added risk of hurricanes.
Getting there:
Mundo Maya International Airport in Flores is the nearest airport to Tikal, offering frequent flights to and from Guatemala City and the Mexican destinations of Cancún and Mérida. From Flores, you can utilize a shuttle, join a tour, or rent a vehicle for the 65km (40 mile) journey to Tikal.
2. Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu, a remarkable 15th-century Inca citadel that remained hidden until the early 20th century, stands as a significant archaeological treasure. Nestled among emerald terraces and steep Andean peaks, this UNESCO World Heritage Site, located at an altitude of 2450m (8000 ft), is a marvel of engineering that has endured centuries of earthquakes and harsh weather.
Must-see attractions:
Your exploration of Machu Picchu should include a visit to the Hut of the Caretaker of the Funerary Rock, where you can delve into the spiritual and cultural facets of Incan life while enjoying panoramic views. Nearby, the sacred Temple of the Sun served as the site for sacrifices and important religious ceremonies. Do not forget to explore the Royal Tomb, a beautifully carved natural rock cave.
As you become immersed in the breathtaking surroundings, consider ascending the heights of Wayna Picchu. Moreover, with new routes scheduled for 2024, the custodians of Machu Picchu are balancing visitor access while ensuring the monument’s preservation for future generations.
When to go:
The peak tourist season in the Andes typically runs from June to August, attributed to drier weather. Alternatively, lower prices can be found during the December to February low season, which is also the wettest time. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of September to November and March to May for more favorable weather and fewer crowds.
Getting there:
Typically, arrival in Peru involves flying into the international airport in Lima before transferring to a connecting flight to Cusco (or Cuzco). If you choose to visit Machu Picchu independently, ensure you acquire your entry ticket well in advance and book a train ride through one of the three routes linking Cusco and Machu Picchu: Inca Rail, Peru Rail, or Belmond Hiram Bingham. Alternatively, consider engaging a trusted tour group with professional guides.
3. Borobudur, Indonesia
This monumental Buddhist site towers above the greenery of paddy fields and tropical forests, having withstood volcanic eruptions, a terrorist attack, and the 2006 earthquake, which incited some damage yet preserved its grandeur. Constructed in the 8th century and spanning over 8000 sq m (26,900 sq ft), the sacred site of Borobudur, located on Java island, encompasses nine levels, reaches approximately 35m (115 ft) in height, and showcases an astonishing 2,672 reliefs and 504 Buddha statues.
Must-see attractions:
While the Borobudur Temple remains the central attraction due to its ethereal beauty, the two smaller temples, Mendut and Candi Pawon, present intricate stories of the journey toward nirvana through their representations of bodhisattvas and the kalpataru (tree of life). Together, these three temples form part of the larger UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized as the Borobudur Temple Compounds.
When to go:
July and August represent the high season for Borobudur, while the period from October to April is typically less crowded and brings more rain. May and June serve as good shoulder months featuring pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
Getting there:
The closest airport is Yogyakarta International Airport, with regular connections to and from Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), and Singapore. If staying at a local resort, consider a private car transfer; otherwise, public buses are available to Borobudur.
4. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Angkor Wat is emblematic of Cambodia: it serves as the national symbol, the heart of Khmer civilization, and a source of deep national pride. Elevated and encircled by a moat, Angkor Wat has remarkably never been abandoned, maintaining continuous use since its construction.
These temples are a harmonious blend of artistic ambition and spiritual devotion, as Khmer “god-kings” aspired to surpass their ancestors in size and scale, resulting in the world’s largest religious structure. Presently, Angkor Wat stands alongside the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal, and the pyramids in its epic proportions, intricate detail, and symbolic significance.
Must-see attractions:
This 12th-century Khmer temple is celebrated for its enchanting apsaras (heavenly nymphs) carved into the walls, complemented by the surrounding 790m (2600 ft) sequence of exquisite bas-relief carvings narrating pivotal tales from Hindu mythology. A steep ascent to the Bakan Sanctuary rewards visitors with four towering Buddha statues symbolizing Angkor Wat’s transition from Hinduism to Buddhism during King Jayavarman VII’s reign.
Plan to spend a minimum of half a day at Angkor Wat to thoroughly explore both the bas-reliefs and the climb to Bakan, which requires a timed entry ticket. The western causeway has undergone recent renovations but ongoing restoration efforts continue throughout Angkor Wat.
When to go:
For the most favorable weather, visit during the high season from November to March, where cooler temperatures and less rain prevail.
Getting there:
The nearest airport, Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport, maintains regular flights to and from major Asian cities such as Bangkok (Thailand), Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Shanghai (China). To access the temples, hire a tuk-tuk, or book an inclusive tour that picks you up from Siem Reap.
5. Luxor, Egypt
Home to the highest concentration of ancient Egyptian monuments in Egypt, Luxor rewards visitors who dedicate time to explore its wonders. A visit to the Valley of the Kings reveals Tutankhamun’s tomb among 62 royal tombs dating back to 2100 BCE. However, note that visiting restrictions apply, and additional tickets may be needed for high-traffic tombs like those of Tutankhamun, Seti I, and Ramses VI.
Must-see attractions:
Spend significant time in Luxor if you wish to explore the renowned sites on both banks of the Nile. On the east bank, Karnak features the critical Amun Temple Enclosure, central to Luxor’s dominant state deity. Adjacent lies the Luxor Museum, widely regarded for its collection of ancient artifacts tracing from the end of the Old Kingdom to the medieval era Mamluk Sultanate.
On the west bank, visit the complex of Ramses III’s Medinat Habu, which stood as the spiritual, economic, and administrative nucleus of Thebes for centuries. For a quieter yet equally impressive ancient monument, explore the Tombs of the Nobles, housing over 400 tombs from the sixth dynasty through Greco-Roman periods.
When to go:
Fall and winter bring milder conditions to the Nile River Valley. Therefore, October through February constitutes Luxor’s high season, with increased crowds and higher prices. For a less crowded experience and more manageable temperatures, consider the shoulder seasons from March to May and in September.
Getting there:
Luxor’s airport provides regular connections to and from Cairo, alongside seasonal flights to select European destinations like London (United Kingdom) and Paris (France). Buses and trains also offer frequent services between Cairo and Luxor, although these journeys may last nine hours or longer. Alternatively, for a more leisurely experience, consider booking a Nile River cruise.
