Palenque

candid Mexico tips

 

Why
Palenque
is special

The Palenque (pah-lehn'-kay) archaeological site has well-preserved Mayan ruins. It is nestled in a gorgeous steep-hill landscape blanketed by a lush tropical forest.

Palenque
tips & insights

History in brief

Palenque dates back to at least about 100 BC. Its glory days were from 600 to 800 AD. Within a 100 years, the city-state collapsed and was abandoned to the encroaching forest.

Top two attractions

Temple of Inscriptions
This building (see left side of photo) is best known for its long, stone-carved glyphic story board, a Mayan masterpiece. And, Pacal, the greatest of Palenque rulers, is interned underneath the edifice.
Palace
It sports a distinctive four-story tower and has a rambling complex of rooms and courtyards. See right side of photo.

Other major attractions include the Temple of Cross Group and the Temple of Jaguar. More likely to be revealed in the years to come - only a small fraction of the structures have been excavated.

Views

Some temples offer great views of Palenque and of the luxuriant forested plain stretching to the Gulf Coast. But their steps are steep and short-treaded, so wear comfortable, good-grip shoes.

High altitude

Many temple climbers run out of breath, not realizing that Palenque is nearly 3,000 meters (9,000 feet) above sea level.

Climate

It is typically quite warm, humid and rainy, so wear light cotton clothing and bring hat and rain gear. Sun screen and insect repellent should also be on your packing list.

Excavations

They have uncovered only a small fraction of the structures.

Getting there

Most visitors arrive via the Villahermosa airport. They then take a two-hour road trip to Palenque. Many tour busses make Palenque a daytrip out of Villahermosa.

How to avoid
the crowds

I recommend staying overnight in a hotel in the town just outside of Palenque so you can explore the site when the gates open at 8 in the morning. You'll  beat the tour-bus crowds and the sweltering midday heat. As a bonus, you may see the fog and mist mystically swirling around. Another low-tourist period is from 3 to 5 p.m., before Palenque closes.

  

sponsored ad 

Explore my
candid country, region
and other travel guides
Click links for tips & insights

©2010 HQP / Hillman Quality Publications