Temple of the Moon, or the Great Cavern.

The Temple of the Moon. Hiram Bingham gave it this name: “The Great Cavern.” The cave’s location gives it a very special ceremonial function. On the northern slope of Huayna Picchu, facing away from the citadel of Machu Picchu, the Incas used a group of caves to build a spectacular monument. These caves nestle in the cliffs, virtually overlooking the Urubamba River, which runs in the canyon surrounding the hill as it changes its south-north course in the opposite direction to form a sort of large volute. Several caves interconnect, and the Incas lined some with finely carved stone blocks to fit precisely with the irregular contours of the large rock outcrops that serve as their roofs. The walls, clearly ornamental in nature, include false doorways and trapezoidal niches with double and triple jambs.

The most notable are known as the “Temple of the Moon.” Hiram Bingham actually gave it this name; he called it “The Great Cavern.” The shapes and location of the caves give it a ceremonial function.

The structure consists of a rectangular enclosure attached to a large rock, featuring three doors, each 1.60 meters high, as well as a side door. Six trapezoidal niches line the walls inside. The “Temple” itself includes a large platform beneath a rock, rising almost 5 meters, and an entrance 8 meters high. To the left, you can see five trapezoidal niches with double jambs, showcasing some of the most delicate stonework at Machu Picchu.

Bingham’s team found approximately five caves during the excavations on the northern and eastern slopes of the hill, presumably used to house mummified corpses. Those associated with the Temple of the Moon (more like crevices) did not yield any archaeological evidence.

Machu Picchu (the citadel itself)

• The iconic Inca city is perched high in the Andes.
• Famous terraces, temples (Sun Temple, Three Windows, etc.), and breathtaking panoramic views.
• The main attraction—UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
• Most visitors spend their time exploring here.

Temple of the Moon

• Located on the backside of Huayna Picchu mountain (the peak behind Machu Picchu in the classic photo).
• More secluded, less crowded, requires a hike from the Huayna Picchu trail.
• A ceremonial cave with intricate stonework, believed to serve as a site for rituals.
• Offers a quieter, mystical atmosphere away from the bustle of the citadel.

The Great Cavern (Gran Caverna)

• Also on Huayna Picchu, but farther along a steep, challenging trail.
• Involves a demanding hike (often 3–4 hours round trip), with lots of steps and exposure.
• Contains a large cave with ceremonial structures, though less impressive architecturally than the citadel or Temple of the Moon.
• Not visited as often—good if you want a rugged adventure off the main tourist track.

👉 If you want classic ruins and the big-picture experience → Machu Picchu itself.
👉 If you want mystery, spirituality, and quiet exploration → Temple of the Moon.
👉 If you want challenge, hiking adventure, and remoteness → The Great Cavern.

Do you want me to help you choose based on your travel style (adventure vs. history vs. scenery), or are you collecting background info for writing/research?

What It Is

• The builders constructed the Temple of the Moon as a ceremonial complex inside and around a natural cave.
• The Incas carved niches, doorways, and walls directly into the rock, blending architecture with nature.
• Researchers believe the site hosted rituals, offerings, and possibly ancestor worship.

Why It’s Unique

• Unlike Machu Picchu’s open terraces and temples, this space feels hidden and enclosed—almost secretive.
• The stonework shows the Incas’ mastery of using natural caves as sacred places.
• Far fewer visitors make it here, so it feels more mystical and isolated than the bustling citadel.

Temple of the Moon Hike

• Getting to the Temple of the Moon requires stamina. The descent from Huayna Picchu is steep and takes you deep into the mountain’s backside.
• The trail is narrow, with stairs carved into rock, and the round trip can take 3–4 hours.
• Because of the difficulty, only adventurous travelers usually make the trek.

Experience

Visiting feels like stepping into a hidden shrine away from the world. You get the sense that you’ve stumbled upon one of the Incas’ most secret ritual spaces, framed by the raw power of the cave and the surrounding cliffs.