Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut & the West Bank: A Luxor Guide

Across the Nile from Karnak lies the land of the dead: royal tombs cut deep into the limestone hills, mortuary temples at the foot of the cliffs and colossal statues standing in the fields. The West Bank is the second half of every Luxor day trip, and for many guests it's the highlight.

The Valley of the Kings

For roughly five centuries, pharaohs of the New Kingdom were buried here in tombs decorated with texts and images to guide them through the afterlife. More than 60 tombs have been found. Only a rotating selection is open at any time, to protect the paintings.

• Standard ticket: includes entry to three open tombs — your guide will recommend the best ones that day.
• Tutankhamun (KV62): small, but his mummy remains in the tomb. Extra ticket.
• Seti I (KV17) and Ramesses VI (KV9): among the most spectacular, often with separate tickets.

Photography rules and ticket prices are set by the authorities and change from time to time; your guide will tell you what applies on the day.

The Temple of Hatshepsut

Hatshepsut ruled Egypt as pharaoh in the 15th century BC, one of very few women to do so. Her mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahari rises in three broad terraces against the cliffs — a design that still looks modern. Look for the reliefs of her expedition to the Land of Punt.

The Colossi of Memnon

Two huge seated statues of Amenhotep III, around 18 metres tall, are all that remain above ground of his vast mortuary temple. It's a short photo stop — but a memorable one.

Tips for the West Bank

• The tombs are warm and can be crowded; visit early if you can.
• Bring cash for extra tomb tickets.
• There's a lot of walking and some steps inside tombs.
• For a bird's-eye view, see our Luxor hot-air balloon guide.

Frequently asked questions