Valley of the Kings

About Valley of the Kings

For about five hundred years the pharaohs of the New Kingdom were buried in this remote valley on the west bank of the Nile at Thebes, beneath a pyramid shaped peak sacred to the goddess Meretseger. More than sixty tombs have been found, cut deep into the rock and decorated with texts and scenes from funerary books such as the Amduat and the Book of Gates. Their decoration is extraordinary.

These images trace the sun god's nightly journey through the underworld, which the dead king hoped to share before rising again at dawn. The tomb of Tutankhamun, found nearly intact in 1922, is the most famous, though larger tombs like those of Seti I and Ramesses VI are more lavishly painted. A rotating selection of tombs is open to limit damage. Visitors should plan carefully, since only some tombs open each day.

What to see

• Tomb of Tutankhamun
• Tomb of Seti I
• Tomb of Ramesses VI
• Tomb of Ramesses IV
• El Qurn peak above the valley

Visiting Valley of the Kings: practical guide

Best time

October to April

Hours

Open daily, roughly 6:00 to 17:00

Entry

General ticket covers three tombs; special tombs extra

Dress code

Light clothing and sun protection

Nearest airport

Luxor International Airport (LXR), 15 km

Tips from experienced pilgrims

• Photography rules change; a camera ticket may be needed
• Visit first thing before the heat builds
• Combine with Deir el-Bahari and Medinet Habu

Etiquette for visitors

Guidance drawn from Ancient Egyptian Religion tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.

• Never touch carved reliefs or painted walls, since skin oils damage pigments.
• Follow photography rules; many tombs ban flash or require a separate ticket.
• Do not climb on statues, columns or pyramid blocks.
• Speak quietly in tombs, which are burial places as well as monuments.
• Use licensed guides and decline offers from unofficial touts to enter closed areas.
• Carry water and sun protection, and visit early to avoid heat and crowds.

Location map

Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions

Frequently asked questions