Valley of the Kings: Tomb Explorer Guide

Valley of the Kings: Tomb Explorer Guide

The Valley of the Kings is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Hidden in the desert hills on the west bank of the Nile near Luxor, this valley served as the royal burial ground for pharaohs and nobles of the New Kingdom (1550-1070 BCE). Over 60 tombs have been discovered here, including the legendary tomb of Tutankhamun.

Why Was This Valley Chosen?

After centuries of pyramid building, pharaohs realized that obvious tombs attracted robbers. They chose this remote valley because:

• The pyramid-shaped mountain (al-Qurn) symbolized the primordial mound


• The location was hidden and easier to guard


• The soft limestone was ideal for carving elaborate tombs

Despite these precautions, all tombs except Tutankhamun's were robbed in ancient times.

Must-See Tombs

Tomb of Tutankhamun (KV62)
The most famous tomb, discovered by Howard Carter in 1922 with treasures intact. The tomb itself is small and the paintings less impressive than others, but its historical significance is unmatched.

• Extra ticket required: 300 EGP

Tomb of Ramesses VI (KV9)
One of the most beautiful tombs with stunning astronomical ceiling paintings. The colors are incredibly well-preserved.

• Included in general ticket

Tomb of Seti I (KV17)
The longest and deepest tomb with the finest artwork in the valley. Recently reopened after restoration.

• Extra ticket required: 1000 EGP

Tomb of Ramesses III (KV11)
Known for its unusual secular scenes including foreign peoples and crafts.

• Included in general ticket

Tomb of Thutmose III (KV34)
Requires climbing steep stairs, but rewards with beautiful red and black painted walls.

• Included in general ticket

Ticket Information

General Ticket: 300 EGP

• Allows entry to 3 tombs (not including Tutankhamun or Seti I)


• Different tombs rotate being open

Special Tombs:

• Tutankhamun: 300 EGP additional


• Seti I: 1000 EGP additional


• Ramesses V/VI photography: 300 EGP

Opening Hours: 6 AM - 5 PM (winter) / 6 AM - 6 PM (summer)

Tips for Your Visit

• Go Early: Arrive when it opens at 6 AM to avoid crowds and heat
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: You'll be walking on uneven ground and climbing stairs
• Bring Water: There's no shade and it gets extremely hot
• No Photography: Photography is not allowed inside tombs (except with special ticket)
• Hire a Guide: The history and symbolism are complex - a good guide enhances the experience
• Take the Tuf-Tuf: Electric carts take you from the entrance to the tombs (included in ticket)

Understanding the Tombs

Each tomb follows a similar pattern:
1. Entrance Corridor: Descending passages with guardian figures
2. Well Chamber: Originally designed as a trap for robbers
3. Pillared Hall: Decorated with scenes of the pharaoh with gods
4. Burial Chamber: Where the sarcophagus was placed
5. Treasury: Storage rooms for funerary items

Combine with Other West Bank Sites

• Temple of Hatshepsut (10 minutes)
• Valley of the Queens
• Medinet Habu
• Colossi of Memnon
• Tombs of the Nobles

A full West Bank tour takes a full day and is best started at sunrise.

The Valley of the Kings offers an unforgettable glimpse into ancient Egyptian beliefs about death and the afterlife. Take your time, respect the sites, and let yourself be transported back 3,000 years.