Nim Li Punit



Monday - Sunday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Entrance Fees
Non-residents: $10 US | Residents: $5 US
Belizean residents enter free on Sundays and public and bank holidays.
- About
Nim Li Punit, meaning “Big Hat” in Q’eqchi’ Maya, is a remarkable archaeological site from the Maya Classic Period located in the Toledo District of Belize, approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) north of Punta Gorda and adjacent to the village of Indian Creek. The site gets its name from an intricately carved stela depicting an ancient Maya king wearing an elaborate headdress. Nestled between the Maya Mountains to the west and lowland swamps leading to the Caribbean Sea in the east, Nim Li Punit offers a breathtaking setting rich in history and natural beauty.
This medium-sized site thrived between the 5th and 8th centuries AD, reaching a peak population of about 7,000 residents before its decline during the collapse of the Maya civilization. The site features three plazas surrounded by structures, including several step-pyramids, with the tallest standing 11 meters (36 feet) high. Fertile soils and extensive trade networks, including goods like obsidian, contributed to Nim Li Punit’s prosperity. Archaeological studies, which began in 1976, continue to uncover the mysteries of this once-flourishing settlement, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and explorers alike.
Questions?
Feel free to contact us!
- +501 662-1140
- info@visittoledobelize.com