: Tours and Excursion

Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings is a burial ground for pharaohs and powerful nobles of the New Kingdom (16th to 11th century BCE). Located on the west bank of the Nile near Luxor, it is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. The valley contains 63 known tombs, including that of Tutankhamun, discovered nearly intact in 1922.

History & Origins

The Valley of the Kings was used as a royal burial site for nearly 500 years, from the 16th to the 11th century BCE. The first pharaoh buried here was Thutmose I, and the last was Ramses XI. The valley was chosen for its secluded location and the pyramid-shaped mountain peak (Al-Qurn) that dominates the area, symbolizing the sun god Ra.

The tombs were constructed by skilled workers from the nearby village of Deir el-Medina. The workers carved the tombs deep into the limestone cliffs, decorating them with intricate paintings and hieroglyphs to guide the pharaohs in the afterlife.

The valley was largely abandoned after the New Kingdom, and many tombs were looted in antiquity. However, some, like Tutankhamun's, remained hidden until modern times.

Architecture & Features

The tombs in the Valley of the Kings vary in size and complexity, from simple pits to elaborate multi-chambered structures. The most elaborate tombs belong to the later pharaohs, such as Seti I and Ramses VI, and feature long corridors, pillared halls, and deep burial chambers.

The walls of the tombs are covered with scenes from the Book of the Dead, the Book of Gates, and other funerary texts, designed to protect and guide the pharaoh in the afterlife. The colors in many tombs remain remarkably vibrant due to the dry climate.

Legends & Facts

The discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb by Howard Carter in 1922 is one of the most famous archaeological finds in history. The tomb contained over 5,000 artifacts, including the golden death mask of the young pharaoh.

The so-called 'Curse of the Pharaohs' gained notoriety after the death of Lord Carnarvon, the financial backer of the excavation, shortly after the tomb's opening. However, most of the team members lived long lives.

The valley is still being explored, with new tombs discovered as recently as 2005 (KV63).

Tourist Tips

Only a limited number of tombs are open to the public at any given time to preserve the delicate paintings. The most popular tombs, such as Tutankhamun's, require an additional ticket.

Bring a flashlight or use your phone's light to better see the details of the wall paintings, as the lighting inside the tombs is often dim.

Nearby

• Valley of the Queens: Burial site for queens and royal children.
• Deir el-Medina: The ancient village of the tomb workers.
• Hatshepsut's Temple: The mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut.
• Colossi of Memnon: Two massive statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III.
• Ramesseum: The mortuary temple of Ramses II.

Practical FAQ for Travelers

What are the opening hours?

The valley is open from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

What is the best time to visit?

Early morning to avoid the heat and crowds.

How long does a visit typically take?

Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore several tombs.

Are photography and videography allowed?

Photography is generally not allowed inside the tombs to protect the paintings.

Is the site accessible for children and people with mobility issues?

The terrain is rocky and uneven, and some tombs require climbing stairs. Not recommended for those with mobility issues.

Is there a dress code?

Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended due to the rocky terrain.