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Located at the northernmost end of the Acropolis of Thebes, at the foot of the cliff behind the Valley of the Kings, stands the temple of Hatshepsut, the first queen of ancient Egypt.
The Temple of Queen Aye abandoned the traditional mausoleum layout, designing the structure as three stacked stories, perfectly suited to the needs of its cliffside valley. Having withstood thousands of years, the temple still retains many exquisite carvings and murals. The lifelike carvings of people and animals demonstrate the artistic prowess of the ancient Egyptians. Early morning is the best time to visit the Temple of Queen Aye, when the reliefs are at their clearest.
A typical tropical desert, only April has the best temperature for sightseeing.
1-2 hours
100 Egyptian pounds
October to April 6:00-16:30,
May-September 6:00-17:00
The Temple of Queen Hatshepsut is one of Egypt’s most extraordinary and architecturally significant temples. Built in the 15th century BCE, it was dedicated to the sun god Amun and the deified Hatshepsut, the first female pharaoh of Egypt. The temple is famous for its unique design, with a series of terraces that rise up against the desert cliffs. It celebrates her reign and highlights the successful trade expedition to Punt, depicted in beautiful reliefs.
The Temple of Queen Hatshepsut is located in the Valley of the Kings, on the West Bank of the Nile River, near Luxor, Egypt. It is accessible by taxi, private car, or a tour bus from Luxor. There are no metro services to the site, and walking is not recommended due to the heat and distance from nearby accommodations.
The temple is open daily from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Visiting in the cooler months (November to March) is ideal for a more comfortable experience.
The entrance fee for the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut is around 100 EGP for foreign visitors. Tickets can be purchased at the site’s entrance or at the ticket offices in Luxor. Online ticketing is not commonly available, so it is recommended to purchase tickets on-site.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, as tickets can be easily bought on-site. However, for guided tours or special packages that include multiple sites, it is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season (November to March).
A visit to the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut typically takes about 1 to 2 hours. If you're also planning to visit the nearby Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens, allow for additional time.
Guided tours are available in several languages, including English, French, German, and Arabic. Audio guides are also available for rent at the site for a more in-depth experience, with many language options offered.
Start by exploring the grand terrace area and make your way through the monumental colonnaded hall. Then, proceed to the inner sanctuary and admire the intricate reliefs. Take time to walk along the terraces, each offering different views of the temple and the surrounding valley.
There are no regular night visits or light shows at the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut. However, special tours and sound-and-light shows are sometimes available in the area, though not specifically for this temple.
The Temple of Queen Hatshepsut can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season (November to March). To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, and try to avoid weekends and public holidays.
Basic facilities, including toilets and small gift shops, are available near the temple. However, there are limited food options, so it is advisable to bring your own water and snacks, especially in the hot months.
The Temple of Queen Hatshepsut is not fully accessible for disabled visitors, as the site involves walking up stairs and uneven terrain. The temple is suitable for elderly and children, though they may find the walk challenging during hot weather.
Cash is required for tickets, souvenirs, and other purchases at the site. Credit cards and mobile payments are not widely accepted, so it is recommended to bring cash in Egyptian pounds.
There are a few restaurants and cafes near the temple, primarily located in the nearby town of Luxor. They offer traditional Egyptian cuisine and international options.
Vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options are widely available in Luxor. Most restaurants cater to these dietary preferences.
Yes, there are souvenir shops at the temple and in Luxor. Common souvenirs include miniature statues, papyrus artwork, jewelry, and traditional Egyptian crafts.
