Attraction
Karnak Temple Complex
The vast temple complex of Amun-Re on Luxor's East Bank, built and rebuilt by around thirty pharaohs and famous for its forest-like Great Hypostyle Hall.
Valley of the Kings
The desert valley on Luxor's West Bank where New Kingdom pharaohs were buried in painted rock-cut tombs, including the tomb of Tutankhamun.
At a glance
- Type
- Royal necropolis, UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Area
- West Bank, Luxor, Egypt
Good to know
- Visitor centre
- Separate tickets for some tombs
Why we recommend it
For around five centuries, from roughly 1539 to 1075 BC, the pharaohs of the Eighteenth to Twentieth Dynasties were buried in this dry, hidden valley in the hills of Luxor's West Bank. Rather than building pyramids, they had long corridors and chambers cut deep into the rock and covered in painted texts and images meant to guide the king through the underworld. Some 65 tombs and chambers are known, numbered KV1 to KV64 under a system introduced by John Gardner Wilkinson in 1827.
The best-known tomb is KV62, the burial of Tutankhamun, found by Howard Carter in November 1922. It is small compared with many others, but seeing it in place gives the famous treasures real context. KV17, the tomb of Seti I, is usually regarded as the finest in the valley for its long decorated passages. KV9, shared by Ramesses V and Ramesses VI, has vivid ceiling paintings and more than a thousand ancient graffiti left by Greek and Roman tourists, and KV11 of Ramesses III is one of the most visited tombs.
Only a selection of tombs is open at any time; around eighteen can be opened, but they are rarely all open together, and openings rotate for conservation. A standard ticket covers entry to several of the open tombs, while Tutankhamun's tomb needs a separate ticket, as does the single open tomb in the West Valley, that of Ay. Inside the tombs visitors move quietly in single file and guides may not lecture, so get your explanations before you go in.
The valley suits anyone curious about ancient Egypt, though the steep steps and narrow corridors in some tombs can be tiring for those with limited mobility. The valley floor reflects the heat, so arrive at opening time or later in the afternoon, carry water, and wear a hat and sturdy shoes. Allow at least two to three hours. A visitor centre near the entrance has a model of the valley that is worth a look before you start.
The site is on the West Bank, reached by road via the Nile bridge or by ferry and taxi from the East Bank. It combines naturally with the Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari, which sits just over the ridge, and with the Colossi of Memnon on the road back towards the river. Many visitors see the valley as part of a half-day or full-day West Bank tour.
Valley of the Kings FAQs
Where is the Valley of the Kings?
It is in the hills of Luxor's West Bank, on the opposite side of the Nile from the town centre.
Can you see Tutankhamun's tomb?
Yes. KV62 is usually open, but it needs a separate ticket from the standard valley entry.
How many tombs can you visit?
A standard ticket covers several of the open tombs. About eighteen can be opened, but they are rarely all open at the same time.
Which tomb is considered the finest?
KV17, the tomb of Seti I, is usually regarded as the finest in the valley.
Can guides explain things inside the tombs?
No. Guides are not allowed to lecture inside, so listen to explanations before entering each tomb.
How long should I allow?
Plan on at least two to three hours, plus travel time from the East Bank.
When is the best time to go?
Arrive early in the morning or come in the late afternoon to avoid the worst of the heat and the busiest periods.
What is nearby?
The Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari is just over the ridge, and the Colossi of Memnon lie on the road back to the river.