The temples of Abu Simbel are among the most impressive monuments of the ancient world. Built by Pharaoh Ramesses II over 3,200 years ago, the colossal rock temples stand on the shores of Lake Nasser in southernmost Egypt. Their rescue from the rising waters of the dam in the 1960s is considered one of the greatest engineering feats of the 20th century. In this guide, you'll learn everything about the history, getting there, and visiting the Abu Simbel temples.
The Great Temple of Ramesses II
The Great Temple is dedicated to Pharaoh Ramesses II and the gods Amun-Ra, Ra-Horakhty, and Ptah. Four colossal seated statues of the pharaoh, each over 20 meters tall, guard the entrance. Despite being over 3,200 years old, the statues are remarkably well-preserved – only one was damaged by an earthquake.
Inside extends a hall with eight Osiris pillars showing the pharaoh in his divine form. The walls are decorated with detailed reliefs depicting the Battle of Kadesh against the Hittites – one of the ancient world's greatest battles. In the inner sanctuary sit four god statues that are illuminated by sunlight twice yearly.
Tip
The famous Sun Festival occurs on February 22 and October 22. On these days, sunlight penetrates 60 meters deep into the temple, illuminating three of the four god statues in the inner sanctuary. Thousands of visitors come specifically for this event – book well in advance!
The Small Temple of Nefertari
Next to the Great Temple stands the Hathor Temple, which Ramesses II dedicated to his beloved wife Nefertari. Six standing statues (each 10 meters tall) adorn the facade – four depict Ramesses, two Nefertari. It is one of the few Egyptian temples where a queen is depicted at the same scale as the pharaoh – a sign of extraordinary esteem.
Inside, beautiful reliefs show Nefertari performing religious ceremonies and the goddess Hathor in various depictions.
The UNESCO Rescue Operation
When the Aswan High Dam was built in the 1960s, the Abu Simbel temples were threatened with submersion beneath the rising waters of Lake Nasser. In an unprecedented international rescue operation under UNESCO patronage, the temples were completely dismantled between 1964 and 1968 and reassembled 65 meters higher on an artificial cliff.
The project cost over 40 million US dollars (over 300 million today) and involved 50 nations. The temples were cut into 1,036 blocks of 20-30 tons each and precisely reassembled. Inside the artificial mountain is a massive concrete dome supporting the structure. This rescue led to the creation of the UNESCO World Heritage Convention.
Getting to Abu Simbel
By Plane from Aswan
The fastest and most comfortable option. The flight from Aswan to Abu Simbel takes only 30 minutes. EgyptAir offers daily connections. Prices from approx. 150 EUR return. Ideal if you have limited time.
By Bus/Convoy from Aswan
Most tourists travel by bus convoy from Aswan. Departure is around 4 AM, the desert drive takes about 3 hours. You then have 2-3 hours at the temples before returning to Aswan. The early departure is rewarded: you experience the temples in magical morning light.
By Lake Nasser Cruise
The most exclusive option: A Lake Nasser cruise from Aswan to Abu Simbel. This 3-4 day cruise takes you to additional Nubian temples (Kalabsha, Wadi el-Seboua, Amada) and offers a unique experience away from tourist crowds.
Practical Information
| Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | 5:00 AM - 6:00 PM (summer), 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM (winter) |
| Entrance Fee | Approx. 300 LE (about 9 EUR) |
| Photography | Allowed outside, prohibited inside the temples |
| Visit Duration | 1.5 - 2.5 hours |
| Sun Festival | February 22 and October 22 |
| Distance from Aswan | 280 km south |
| Sound & Light Show | Available evenings (English, French, Arabic) |
Including Abu Simbel in Your Egypt Trip
Although Abu Simbel is remote, it fits well into various travel itineraries:
- Nile Cruise + Abu Simbel: Combine a Nile cruise Luxor-Aswan with a day trip to Abu Simbel. The perfect combination for culture lovers.
- Hurghada + Abu Simbel: From Hurghada, you can book a 2-day excursion (Day 1: Flight to Aswan + Abu Simbel, Day 2: Aswan sights + return flight).
- Overnight in Abu Simbel: Those wanting to enjoy the temples at leisure and see the Sound & Light Show can stay overnight in the small town of Abu Simbel (few hotels, from approx. 30 EUR).
The temples of Abu Simbel are absolute highlights of any Egypt trip. Ask us about custom travel planning – we organize your Abu Simbel visit including flights or transfers, entrance fees, and guide!
✅ Key Takeaway
Abu Simbel is one of the most impressive monuments in human history. The colossal statues, detailed reliefs, and the fascinating story of the UNESCO rescue operation make the visit unforgettable. Although getting there requires some effort, every kilometer is worth it. Ideally combine Abu Simbel with a Nile cruise or a stay in Aswan.
