Luxor Temple

Introducing Luxor Temple

Located on the banks of the Nile River in Upper Egypt, over 670 kilometers south of Cairo, it occupies the southern half of the ruins of Thebes, the capital of the Middle and New Kingdoms of ancient Egypt. It was the Nile-side palace of the god Amun during the Obeiddo festival. In front of the temple, you can see the remains of a small section of the "Ram Road," lined with carvings of goats' heads.

Entering the temple, beyond the first pylon, lies a courtyard surrounded by two rows of columns. The colonnade at the northern entrance is particularly beautiful, with 14 columns each approximately 14 meters tall, topped with graceful reed stems. Each column represents the pharaoh's majesty. If you have the opportunity, consider viewing the Luxor Temple at night, which offers a completely different experience than during the day. There are also frequent light and sound shows at night.

Climate and best time to travel

It has a tropical desert climate with extremely hot summers, and the best seasons for travel are spring, autumn, and winter.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

1-2 hours

Tickets

60 Egyptian pounds

Attraction opening hours

6:00-21:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Luxor Temple

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Luxor Temple, located on the east bank of the Nile in Luxor, was built primarily by Amenhotep III and completed by Ramesses II. It served as a religious center dedicated to the rejuvenation of kingship and was integral to the annual Opet Festival. The temple showcases ancient Egyptian art, architecture, and religious practices.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in the city of Luxor, Egypt, on the east bank of the Nile. Accessible by taxi, rickshaw, or walking from nearby hotels in central Luxor. Some guided tours include transportation from hotels or the Nile cruise docks.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and crowds. Night visits offer a stunning illuminated view.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• General entrance ticket: approximately 160 EGP (prices may vary).
• Tickets can be purchased at the site; some tour operators provide combined tickets with Karnak Temple.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is not mandatory for general entry, but recommended during peak tourist season (November–March) or for organized tours. Booking 1–2 weeks ahead is sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1.5–3 hours for a full exploration including main halls, statues, and the Avenue of Sphinxes. Add extra time if attending night illuminations or guided tours.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The main pylon and entrance courtyard.
• Statues of Ramesses II and other pharaohs.
• Hypostyle halls with columns and detailed hieroglyphics.
• Sanctuary area dedicated to Amun-Ra.
• Avenue of Sphinxes connecting Luxor Temple to Karnak Temple.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are widely available in English, French, German, Spanish, and Arabic. Some audio guides are available at the site or through mobile apps.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Entrance pylon for wide-angle photos of the temple facade.
• Near statues and columns to capture hieroglyphic details.
• Avenue of Sphinxes for perspective shots leading to Karnak Temple.
• Illuminated temple at night provides dramatic photography opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main pylon, move through the entrance court to the hypostyle halls, visit the sanctuary, and then walk along the Avenue of Sphinxes. Finish with photos and exploration of smaller statues and reliefs.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Yes, Luxor Temple is open at night with beautiful illumination. Special guided tours at night are offered, providing historical context and photography opportunities.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Peak crowds occur mid-morning to mid-afternoon. Early morning, late afternoon, and weekdays are less crowded.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Toilets near the entrance.
• Small food and drink vendors outside the temple.
• Souvenir shops selling papyrus, jewelry, and postcards nearby.
• Rest areas with seating near the courtyard and entrance.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Mostly accessible for elderly and children, but some areas have uneven stone floors or steps. Limited facilities for wheelchair users.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash (Egyptian Pounds) is recommended for tickets, vendors, and tips. Cards are accepted at larger nearby shops and some tour operators.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Cafés and small restaurants along the Nile Corniche and nearby streets.
• Hotels in Luxor city often have rooftop dining with temple views.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, most restaurants in Luxor provide vegetarian, vegan, and halal options.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor.
• Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa.
• Mid-range hotels and guesthouses in central Luxor near the Nile.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Karnak Temple, connected via the Avenue of Sphinxes.
• Luxor Museum for ancient artifacts.
• The Nile Corniche for a scenic walk or boat ride.
• Mortuary temples on the west bank of Luxor.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Papyrus paintings and scrolls.
• Miniature statues and jewelry replicas.
• Postcards, keychains, and traditional crafts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxi or ride-hailing to hotels, museums, or the Nile Corniche.
• Guided tours often include transportation to other Luxor attractions.
• Walking or rickshaw rides for nearby sites along the Nile.