Off to Machu Picchu :)

Visiting Peru will not be complete without the visit to the famous Machu Picchu! 
Facts: 
1. More than 7,000 feet above sea level in the Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is the most visited tourist destination in Peru. A symbol of the Incan Empire and built around 1450AD, Machu Picchu was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.
2. In the Quechua Indian language, “Machu Picchu” means “Old Peak” or “Old Mountain.”
3. Machu Picchu is made up of more than 150 buildings ranging from baths and houses to temples and sanctuaries.

Off we go! Traveling by train to Machu Picchu is a mystical experience. Enjoying the amazing landscape of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, between snow-capped peaks and towering mountains, through the panoramic windows of Vistadome train. We started our journey from Ollantaytambo train station and took approximately 2 hrs. to reach Aguas Calientes. 

Snacks were served and we were entertained with a Saqra dance. 

We arrived in Aguas Calientes- the colloquial name for the town of Machu Picchu. Then, we hopped on the bus for a 30-minute ride to the entrance of the citadel.  Although this route can also be done on foot, the bus is the preferred option since the trip is uphill. Going on foot takes 2 hours on average.  All the way up, we were surrounded by a forest of clouds. The lush vegetation on the surrounding mountains would peek through every now and again. Just don't look down there- it's pretty scary! 

Upon arrival, we headed straight to the entrance to secure our tickets. Our guide, asked a copy of our passports for issuance and off we go! 

When we stepped inside the Inca ruins and saw the whole of Machu Picchu- it was magical. It was peaceful, clean, beautiful, and incredibly green. Off course, we needed to wear our ponchos for great photos. :)