VALLEY OF THE KINGS

Immerse yourself in the world of ancient monarchy by visiting the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, Egypt. Here, you can learn about the afterlife through the vivid murals and elaborate hieroglyphics found in tombs like Tutankhamun's. At this fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can also discover the history of pharaohs and nobles from the New Kingdom era.

Although referred to as the Valley of the Kings, the Egyptians gave this Valley a more impressive name: Ta-sekhet-ma'at, or "The Great and Majestic Necropolis of the Millions of Years of the Pharaoh, Life, Strength, and Health in The West of Thebes." You can explore ancient Egypt's Valley of the Kings, where breathtaking cliffs and exquisite tombs bring history to life. An Egypt tour promises a fascinating voyage through time for history buffs, travellers, and ancient culture enthusiasts. You can see detailed hieroglyphics, bright murals, and rich burial objects on the luxuriously furnished tombs carved deep into the rocky environment. 

The intriguing stories told in each tomb shed light on the beliefs and practices of the Egyptian pharaohs as they sought eternal life in the afterlife. You can visit the 64 marked burial sites, which feature beautiful wall sculptures featuring religious images, mythological narratives, and ancient Egyptian life. Lastly, you can also witness the tombs of Tutankhamun, Ramses II, and Hatshepsut, whose legends continue to fascinate. 

Highlights

• Enter the Valley of the Kings and let yourself be fascinated by the sumptuous tombs set into the rugged rock faces.
• Explore and find colourful artwork, elaborate hieroglyphics, and opulent burial artefacts.
• See how every tomb tells a different story about the journey of Egyptian royalty to the afterlife.
• Explore the 64 known burial sites, each one adorned with beautiful wall carvings and elaborate paintings.
• Witness the revered tombs of four pharaohs namely Tutankhamun, Ramses II, Seti I, and Thutmose III.

How To Reach

The Valley of the Kings is situated on the western bank of the Nile River near the ancient city of Thebes, now known as Luxor.

1. By Boat: Take a picturesque ride down the Nile River from the east bank to the west bank of Luxor. The trip gives amazing vistas of the river and the surroundings, making the approach to the Valley of the Kings unforgettable.

2. By Bus: Getting to the Valley of the Kings from Luxor's downtown is easy and inexpensive. You can board buses that leave from Luxor's main bus stop all the time and reach the site within 30 minutes.

3. By Car/Taxi: You can drive to the Valley of the Kings from Luxor, covering a distance of about 5 kilometres. The journey typically takes around 15 minutes via the Al Qarna Road, offering easy access to the historic site.

Best Time To Visit

Valley of the Kings is a year-round attraction that lets people learn about old Egyptian culture and history. The winter months (November to February) are the best for exploring this historical site. During this season, you can enjoy beautiful weather that is perfect for outdoor exploration without the intense heat of summer.

You can visit the Valley of the Kings on Tuesday or Wednesday for a quieter, less crowded experience. Weekdays are less crowded with tourists and residents, so you may explore the tombs and surrounding area at your own pace.

Other Essential Information

1. Book a guided tour early to understand the history of each tomb and find your way around easily.

2. Visit Luxor in Egypt between the months of October and April to experience more pleasant temperatures.

3. Wear comfortable shoes and modest, breathable clothing, especially for walking in the heat.

4. Protect yourself from the sun by packing a hat, some sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.

5. Respect regulations, like not touching artefacts or taking photos, were not allowed.

6. Expect extra fees for some tombs and have cash in Egyptian pounds.

7. Take time to admire the intricate artwork and hieroglyphics; learn their stories and symbolism beforehand.