The Valley of the Kings on the west bank of the Nile near Luxor is one of the world's most significant archaeological sites. For over 500 years – from the 16th to the 11th century BC – the pharaohs of the New Kingdom were buried here in elaborately decorated rock tombs. Over 60 tombs have been discovered, including the world-famous Tomb of Tutankhamun. Learn everything about the history, the most important tombs, and practical visitor tips.
History of the Valley of the Kings
The valley was chosen as a royal necropolis because the pyramid-shaped mountain el-Qurn (the Horn) towers above it – a natural pyramid substitute. After their predecessors' experiences with pyramid robberies, New Kingdom pharaohs opted for hidden rock tombs instead of monumental pyramids. The tombs were meant to remain secret – which in most cases didn't work: almost all tombs were plundered by grave robbers in antiquity.
The valley is divided into two areas: the East Valley (main valley with most tombs) and the West Valley (with the tombs of Akhenaten and Ay). A total of 63 tombs have been catalogued, numbered from KV1 (King's Valley 1) to KV65.
Tip
With the standard ticket, you can visit 3 tombs (not all are open simultaneously). Purchase additional tickets for Tutankhamun's tomb (KV62) and Ramesses VI's tomb (KV9) – both are absolutely worth the extra cost!
The Most Important Tombs
KV62 – Tomb of Tutankhamun
The world's most famous tomb was discovered nearly intact in 1922 by Howard Carter. The over 5,000 burial goods – including the golden death mask – are now in the Grand Egyptian Museum. The tomb itself is relatively small (only 4 chambers), but the wall paintings show fascinating scenes of afterlife beliefs. Tutankhamun's mummy still rests in its sarcophagus in the tomb. Separate ticket required.
KV9 – Tomb of Ramesses VI
This tomb impresses with the best-preserved ceiling paintings in the entire valley. The astronomical depictions on the ceiling show the Book of Night and the Book of Day in vivid colors. Many visitors consider this the most beautiful tomb in the valley. Separate ticket required.
KV11 – Tomb of Ramesses III
One of the largest and best-preserved tombs. The side chambers show unique everyday scenes: bakers, musicians, boats, and exotic animals. The color richness of the reliefs is remarkably well preserved.
KV2 – Tomb of Ramesses IV
An easily accessible tomb with an impressive granite sarcophagus at the end of a long corridor. Texts from the "Book of Caverns" and the "Book of the Earth" decorate the walls.
KV34 – Tomb of Thutmose III
The tomb of "Egypt's Napoleon" lies high in a cliff face and requires a steep staircase. The burial chamber has an oval shape and contains the oldest complete text of the Amduat (Book of the Underworld) in unique line-drawing form.
KV35 – Tomb of Amenhotep II
Beyond its wall paintings, this tomb is famous because a mummy cache was discovered here – ancient priests had relocated several pharaohs' mummies to protect them from tomb robbers.
How the Tombs Were Built
The tombs were created by specialized workers from Deir el-Medina – a purpose-built workers' village. Workers carved into limestone with copper and bronze tools and decorated walls with reliefs and paintings. A typical royal tomb had:
- A long descending corridor (up to 200 meters)
- Several antechambers with treasure rooms
- A sarcophagus chamber with the stone coffin
- Walls covered in religious texts (Book of the Dead, Amduat, Litany of Ra)
- Depictions of the pharaoh's afterlife journey
Practical Visitor Tips
| Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM (winter), 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM (summer) |
| Standard Ticket | Approx. 300 LE (about 9 EUR) – 3 tombs of your choice |
| Tutankhamun extra | Approx. 400 LE (about 12 EUR) |
| Ramesses VI extra | Approx. 120 LE (about 4 EUR) |
| Photography | Generally prohibited (guards in the tombs) |
| Recommended visit time | Early morning (6-9 AM) for pleasant temperatures |
| Getting there | Luxor West Bank, by boat + taxi or organized tour |
Luxor's West Bank: More Than Just the Valley
Combine the Valley of the Kings with more West Bank highlights:
- Hatshepsut Temple (Deir el-Bahari): The terraced mortuary temple of Pharaoh Hatshepsut, impressively built into the cliff face
- Colossi of Memnon: Two 18-meter seated statues of Amenhotep III at the entrance to the plain
- Medinet Habu: The well-preserved mortuary temple of Ramesses III with colorful reliefs
- Valley of the Queens: Tombs of royal consorts, including the famous Tomb of Nefertari
- Deir el-Medina: The workers' village with preserved houses and workers' tombs
A visit to the Valley of the Kings is an absolute must on any Egypt trip. Book your Luxor excursion with us – we organize transfers, entrance fees, and an experienced guide who brings the tombs to life!
✅ Key Takeaway
The Valley of the Kings is a place of incomparable historical significance. The elaborate tomb paintings, mysterious corridors, and stories of the pharaohs make every visit an unforgettable experience. Visit at least the tombs of Ramesses III, Ramesses VI, and Tutankhamun, and arrive early morning for the best experience.
