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The Valley of the Kings was once a magnificent burial complex, containing over 60 royal tombs and the burial place of 64 pharaohs from Egypt's 18th to 20th dynasties. The name comes from the biblical story of the Exodus, in which Pharaoh refused to allow Moses to lead the Israelites. God then sent ten plagues that killed Egypt's firstborn sons before Pharaoh agreed to allow Moses to lead the Israelites. To commemorate this great victory, the pharaohs named the area "Valley of the Kings."
The geology of the Valley of the Kings is primarily composed of limestone formations, formed between approximately 35 and 56 million years ago, with intervening layers containing the "Esna Shale" formation. These formations were forced upward during the late Tertiary Period, and during the Pleistocene, heavy rains cut numerous channels deep into the limestone as water flowed from the plateau toward what would eventually become the Nile Valley.
The entrances to the tombs in the Valley of the Kings are often located halfway up a hillside, with passageways leading deep into the tombs. The patterns and hieroglyphics on the walls are still clearly visible today, including the pharaohs' terrifying curses. The murals within the tombs depict both the prosperity of the earthly realm and the glorious rebirth of the afterlife, their colors retaining their vibrant color after millennia. The walls and ceilings of these tombs are covered in colorful murals. These paintings, lining the long passages, depict the pharaoh's "great achievements" during his lifetime or the journey to his impending rebirth.
Best time to visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
During these two seasons, the climate in the Valley of the Kings is relatively pleasant, avoiding the scorching heat of summer and the cold of winter. Furthermore, the moderate daylight hours in spring and autumn allow visitors to better appreciate the murals and artifacts within the tombs while also reducing the risk of heatstroke or cold.
【Recommended attractions】
→ Tomb of Ramses VI
The reliefs, murals and other decorations inside are brightly colored, making it one of the most beautiful and relatively best-preserved catacombs in the Valley of the Kings.
→Tomb of King Sitti I
This tomb is one of the best-preserved and most beautifully painted tombs in the Valley of the Kings. Because tickets are an additional cost, it's less crowded and suitable for those who prefer a quieter experience. Please note that tickets must be purchased after entering the main gate of the Valley of the Kings, and there is no ticket office inside.
→Tutankhamun's Tomb
Famous for its Golden Mask and the Pharaoh's Curse, the tomb remained untouched by tomb robbers until its discovery in 1922, preserving numerous valuable artifacts. The murals are exquisite and vibrant, and Tutankhamun's mummy is also housed here.
【Recommended Play Time】
2-3 hours
The tombs that can be visited in the Valley of the Kings and the admission fees change almost every year. Please check the ticket purchase platform for details. Generally, the ticket includes admission to three tombs.
May 1st - Ramadan 6:00-19:00 (last ticket sale at 18:00); Ramadan - April 30th of the following year 6:00-17:00 (last ticket sale at 16:00).
The start time of Ramadan in Egypt is determined according to the Islamic calendar, usually in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. The specific time of Ramadan may change due to moon observation. It is recommended to pay attention to the notifications of local religious institutions or official media to obtain the most accurate information.
Its business status is subject to the opening conditions on that day.
The Valley of the Kings is an ancient necropolis on the west bank of the Nile near Luxor, Egypt, used for royal burials during the New Kingdom (16th–11th century BCE). It houses tombs of pharaohs, nobles, and powerful figures, showcasing remarkable art, hieroglyphics, and burial practices. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of ancient Egyptian civilization.
The Valley of the Kings is located near Luxor, on the west bank of the Nile. Visitors can reach it by taxi, private car, or guided tour from Luxor city. Some hotels also offer shuttle services. Walking is not practical from Luxor due to distance.
Open daily from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM (hours may vary by season). The best times to visit are early morning to avoid crowds and extreme heat, typically between October and April for pleasant weather.
Advance booking is not strictly required but recommended for special tombs like Tutankhamun, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking a few days in advance is advisable.
Allocate 3–5 hours to explore several tombs, walk through the Valley, and enjoy guided tours.
Guided tours are widely available in English, Arabic, French, Spanish, German, and other languages. Audio guides can sometimes be rented at nearby visitor centers or included in organized tours.
Photography is allowed in some tombs (without flash). Excellent spots include the entrance cliffs, panoramic views of the Valley, and tomb interiors with wall paintings and hieroglyphics.
Start at the visitor center, proceed to tombs of Seti I and Ramses III, then visit a few smaller tombs. Save Tutankhamun’s tomb for the end if you have purchased the special ticket. Follow marked paths and signs.
Occasionally, Luxor offers “Sound and Light” shows in the general West Bank area, but the Valley itself is primarily visited during daytime. Night tours inside tombs are not generally available.
The Valley can get crowded, especially at popular tombs like Tutankhamun. Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times, particularly outside peak tourist months (December–February).
Partially accessible. Uneven paths and stairs in tombs may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children are welcome but should be supervised inside tombs.
Cash (Egyptian pounds) is preferred for tickets, small shops, and local vendors. Some major credit cards may be accepted at visitor centers and guided tours.
Nearby in Luxor West Bank or visitor center: small cafés and snack bars offering drinks, light meals, and traditional snacks.
Yes, local restaurants in Luxor typically offer vegetarian, vegan, and halal options including salads, falafel, hummus, and rice dishes.
Nearby accommodations include Luxor hotels on the East Bank, and boutique lodges on the West Bank, such as Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa, Sonesta St. George, and local guesthouses.
Souvenir shops sell papyrus scrolls, miniature statues, jewelry replicas, scarabs, hieroglyphic carvings, and postcards.
Taxi, private car, or organized tour buses are the main options to continue exploring other West Bank attractions or return to Luxor city. Horse or camel rides are sometimes available for shorter transfers.
