Valley of the Kings: Explore Egypt’s Royal Tombs Beneath the Desert Cliffs of Luxor

Claim to Fame

One of the most important archaeological sites in the world, the Valley of the Kings is the burial ground of ancient Egypt’s New Kingdom pharaohs—including the legendary tomb of Tutankhamun.

📌 Navigating Valley of the Kings in Luxor : Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Washrooms: Washrooms are available near the entrance for visitor convenience.
Hours of Operation: The Valley of the Kings is open daily from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours in the summer.
Important Information: It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and check for any tomb closures before visiting.
Admission Fee: The admission fee varies depending on whether you visit individual tombs or purchase a combined ticket.
How Long to Visit: Most visitors spend about 2 to 3 hours exploring the valley and its tombs.
Parking: Parking is available near the entrance, but spaces may be limited during peak tourist seasons.
Family Friendly: The Valley of the Kings is family friendly, offering educational opportunities about ancient Egyptian history.
Photography: Photography is permitted outside the tombs, but flash photography and tripods are prohibited inside.
WIFI: Free Wi-Fi is not available on-site; visitors should prepare for limited connectivity.
Picnic Area: Picnic areas are not provided, as food and drinks are not allowed within the archaeological site.
Handicap Accessible: The site has some handicap accessible pathways, but certain areas may be challenging to navigate.
Pets: Pets are not allowed in the Valley of the Kings to maintain the site’s integrity and cleanliness.
Guided Tours: Guided tours are highly recommended and available in multiple languages to enhance the visitor experience.
Restaurant or Cafe: There are no restaurants or cafes within the Valley, but options can be found nearby in Luxor.
Gift Shop: A gift shop is available at the entrance, offering souvenirs related to ancient Egypt.

📌Heads up: All times, prices and visitor policies are subject to change without notice. Please check the official website for the most recent information.

Photos of Valley of the Kings in Luxor

Tucked into the barren cliffs of Luxor’s west bank, the Valley of the Kings served as the necropolis for Egypt’s most powerful rulers for over 500 years. Unlike the grand pyramids of earlier dynasties, New Kingdom pharaohs chose hidden rock-cut tombs filled with intricate carvings, celestial maps, and vivid murals. Today, the site holds more than 60 discovered tombs, some open to the public in rotation, offering visitors a rare chance to walk the sacred corridors once reserved for kings, priests, and gods.

What to Expect

Visitors typically tour 3 standard tombs included in general admission (e.g., Ramses III, Ramses IX, Merenptah), with optional access to premium tombs like Tutankhamun (KV62), Seti I (KV17), or Ramses V/VI (KV9) for additional fees. Expect steep ramps, underground corridors, and dramatic wall paintings depicting scenes from the Book of the Dead. While many tombs were looted in antiquity, the artistry remains awe-inspiring. Don’t expect to see mummies here—most are in museums—but Tutankhamun’s remains lie in his tomb under glass.

Background and Cultural Context

The Valley of the Kings (Wadi el-Muluk) was established during Egypt’s 18th Dynasty, when pharaohs sought more secure and sacred burial sites away from the vulnerable pyramids of the north. The secluded valley near Thebes (modern Luxor) became the final resting place for over 60 royals, nobles, and high priests. The tombs were carefully designed to aid the pharaoh’s journey through the underworld and into eternal life. The most famous discovery came in 1922, when Howard Carter unearthed Tutankhamun’s untouched tomb, sparking a global Egyptology craze.

Best Time to Visit

Arrive early morning (8–10 AM) for cooler temperatures and lighter crowds. Temperatures soar in the afternoon, especially from May to September. Winter (October–March) is peak season, offering pleasant weather but busier conditions. Avoid midday visits when the sun reflects off the surrounding cliffs and walking paths.

How to Get There

The Valley of the Kings is located on Luxor’s west bank, approximately 40 minutes from downtown by car. Most visitors arrive via private guide, taxi, or group tour. A visitor center offers ticketing, restrooms, and electric tram transport to the main entrance. Combination tickets may include nearby sites like the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Valley of the Queens.

Photo Opportunities

Carved entrance and wide staircase into the tomb of Ramses V/VI (KV9)
Celestial ceiling frescoes inside the tomb of Seti I (if accessible)
Iconic view down the main shaft of Tutankhamun’s tomb
Sunlit cliffs surrounding the valley and panoramic shots from nearby hills
Hieroglyph-covered corridors glowing under artificial lighting

Travel Tips

Buy separate tickets in advance for premium tombs—Seti I and Tutankhamun are limited-entry.
Photography is permitted with a camera ticket—flash and tripods are strictly prohibited.
Wear closed-toe shoes and bring water—walking paths are rocky and shaded areas are limited.
Hire a licensed Egyptologist guide or rent the audio guide at the visitor center for context.
Combine with a visit to the nearby Tombs of the Nobles or Hatshepsut’s Mortuary Temple for a full day.

FAQs

How many tombs are open to the public?
Around 8–10 tombs are typically open at any time, with a rotating schedule managed by the Ministry of Antiquities to preserve the artwork.

Is Tutankhamun’s tomb worth the extra cost?
Yes—though modest in size, it’s one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. You’ll see the king’s actual mummy and painted burial chamber.

Is the site wheelchair-accessible?
The visitor center and trams are accessible, but most tombs require descending stairs or uneven ramps. Visitors with mobility issues may need assistance.

Final Thoughts

A tour of the Valley of the Kings is a powerful encounter with ancient Egypt’s most sacred mysteries. Beneath the sun-baked cliffs lie stories of gods, royalty, and humanity’s quest for eternity—painted in colors that have endured for over 3,000 years. Whether you enter one tomb or many, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the art, engineering, and spiritual vision of a civilization that still fascinates the world.

Things To Do near Valley of the Kings in Luxor

Karnak Temple Complex

The Distance from Valley of the Kings in Luxor to Karnak Temple Complex is 9.8 Kilometer(s) / 6.1 Mile(s)

📘 Egypt Visitors Travel Information

Time Zone: Egypt operates on Eastern European Time (EET), which is UTC +2. The country currently does not observe Daylight Saving Time.

Weather: Egypt has a hot desert climate, with very little rainfall and high temperatures, especially in summer. Cairo averages 35–40°C (95–104°F) in July, while winters are milder with daytime temperatures around 18–22°C (64–72°F). Coastal areas like Alexandria are more temperate.

Population: Egypt has a population of approximately 110 million people, making it the most populous country in the Arab world. Cairo is the capital and largest city, home to over 20 million residents in its metro area.

Size: Egypt covers about 1 million square kilometers (386,000 square miles), most of which is desert. The Nile River runs through the country and supports the vast majority of the population and agriculture.

Language: Arabic is the official language of Egypt. English is widely spoken in tourist areas and among professionals, while French is also used in some sectors.

Currency: The official currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Cash is still the dominant form of payment, especially in local markets, but credit cards are accepted in hotels, upscale restaurants, and larger shops.

Safety: Egypt is generally safe for tourists, especially in well-traveled areas like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Visitors should remain alert, follow travel advisories, and avoid protests or politically sensitive areas.

Tipping: Tipping, known locally as “baksheesh,” is expected in many service situations. Small tips for drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides are appreciated, and 10–15% is standard in restaurants.

Electricity and Plugs: Egypt uses 220V electricity at 50Hz. Plug types C and F are common. Travelers from countries using other plug types should bring an adapter.

Water: Tap water in Egypt is not considered safe for drinking. Bottled water is widely available and recommended for drinking and brushing teeth.

Annual Visitors: Egypt receives around 13 million international tourists annually. Top attractions include the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, Luxor Temple, and the Valley of the Kings.

Visa Requirements: Most travelers to Egypt need a visa. Citizens of many countries can obtain an eVisa online or a visa on arrival at major airports. A valid passport is required.

Health & Vaccinations: Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine shots like tetanus and measles. For extended or rural travel, hepatitis B and rabies vaccines may be advised.

Transportation: Transportation options include domestic flights, trains, buses, and taxis. Uber operates in major cities. Intercity trains and Nile River cruises are popular ways to explore Egypt.

Food: Egyptian cuisine features dishes like koshari, falafel (ta’ameya), grilled meats, and fresh pita bread. Street food is abundant and often inexpensive.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms: Egyptian culture emphasizes hospitality and respect. Modest dress is recommended, particularly at religious sites. Public displays of affection should be avoided.

Telecommunications & Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available in hotels and some cafés, though speeds can vary. Mobile data is affordable and reliable with local SIM cards from providers like Vodafone or Orange.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Medical facilities in major cities are adequate, but private clinics are preferred for tourists and can be expensive without insurance.

Did You Know? - Facts About Valley of the Kings in Luxor

Howard Carter's discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922 marked one of the most significant archaeological finds in history, revealing a wealth of artifacts and providing insights into the life and death of the young pharaoh.

The Valley of the Kings served as the royal burial site for pharaohs and powerful nobles during the New Kingdom period (approximately 1549–1069 BCE), housing around 63 known tombs, including that of the famed Tutankhamun.

The entrance to each tomb was often hidden to deter tomb robbers, and elaborate traps and false passages were sometimes included in the designs to protect the treasures buried within.

The intricate wall paintings and hieroglyphs found inside these tombs are vital in understanding ancient Egyptian beliefs about the afterlife, with scenes depicting everything from daily life to elaborate rituals intended to aid the deceased on their journey.

The Valley of the Kings encompasses both the East and West Valleys, with the West Valley being less visited, containing fewer tombs but some notable examples like the tomb of Ay, who succeeded Tutankhamun.