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Exploring the Temples of Karnak: A Visitor's Guide

Written by Jess Lee Updated May 20, 2021

Big, bold, and hugely ambitious, Luxor's mammoth Temple of Karnak complex is one of Ancient Egypt's grandest building projects .

Every pharaoh worth their salt added and amended the buildings here during their reign, stamping their seal on the kingdom's most revered religious sanctuary. For Karnak was the house of the gods, and its glories were to be feted by all.

Although sacked by the Assyrian and Persian armies and looted and pilfered by early explorers and travelers, who carted off statues and masonry, there are few other temple complexes in the world that are still so commanding and majestic today. The Pharaonic kingdoms may be long gone, but their power lives on in this triumphant testament of stone.

If you're short of time, the Great Temple of Amun is the main building and should be your key destination, but plenty of scattered temple remnants (in various ruinous states) surround it.

Use our visitor's guide to exploring the Temples of Karnak to help you navigate and understand this vast complex on your visit.

On This Page:

Avenue of sphinxes, great temple of amun, kiosk of sesostris, temple of ptah, northern temple precinct, temple of montu, temple of ramses ii, temple of osiris, sacred lake, temple of khonsu, temple of osiris and opet, southern temple precinct, temple of mut, tips and tactics: how to make the most of your visit to the temples of karnak.

• Getting to the Temples of Karnak

You enter the complex through a grand processional way, flanked on both sides by ram-headed sphinxes.

These once ran all the way to Karnak from Luxor Temple (in downtown modern Luxor), as the triumphant three-kilometer-long thoroughfare connecting the two temples. During the Ancient Egyptian annual Festival of Opet, the statues of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu were paraded out of Karnak, down this avenue to Luxor Temple.

In recent years, excavation work in downtown Luxor has uncovered large sections of this original processional way, though the section leading to the entrance to the Karnak complex remains the most impressive.

The Great Temple of Amun is Karnak's main temple building , and like nearly all of Egypt's surviving monuments, the temple has seen additions and improvements by the hands of many pharaohs over the centuries.

The shape of the temple you see before you now is mostly due to Pharaoh Tuthmosis I, who made Thebes capital of the New Kingdom and expanded the original modest temple here, as it no longer seemed adequate to the power of the god and the pharaoh.

Most of your time in Karnak will be spent inside this awe-inspiring building , but don't make the mistake of thinking this is all the Karnak complex has to offer.

• Read More: Exploring Karnak's Great Temple of Amun, Luxor

North from the Main Temple of Amun

Known as the Karnak Open-Air Museum, this collection of shrines lies directly north of the Temple of Amun's Great Court.

Also known as the White Chapel, the Kiosk of Sesostris I, just to the north of the Great Temple of Amun , is one of the oldest structures in the whole temple complex and dates from Ancient Egypt's Middle Kingdom era.

Built of fine limestone, it was erected to commemorate Pharaoh Sesostris I's jubilee. Sesostris is only one of the common anglicizations of this pharaoh's name, and you'll also see this building referred to as the kiosk or white chapel of Senusret I.

The kiosk stands on a substructure and is approached by ramps on the east and west sides. The roof is borne on 24 pillars, which, like the outer walls, are covered with reliefs of excellent quality.

In the interior is a base for the sacred barque of Amun.

The Temple of Ptah, tutelary god of Memphis, was built by Tuthmosis III and enlarged and restored by the Kushite Pharaoh Shabaka and later, by some of the Ptolemies. It sits snug against the Karnak complex's northern boundary wall.

The temple is approached from the west through five successive gateways. Beyond this is a passage formed by four columns with rich foliage capitals, linked by screens. At the end of the passage is a small Pylon with the names of Tuthmosis III (restored in the Ptolemaic period) on the doorway.

The entrance passage leads into a Court, on the rear side of which is a portico with two 16-sided columns. In the portico are two altar bases of red granite with dedications by Amenemhet I and Tuthmosis III. In the walls are six niches, and a staircase leads to an upper story.

In the center of the court, a door leads into the temple's sanctuary. Here, on the doorway, you can see restored reliefs dating from the reign of Tuthmosis III, while the Sanctuary preserves original reliefs of that period.

In the Sanctuary is the cult image of Ptah (now headless), which is lit, with magical effect, by an aperture in the roof. To the right is a room containing a statue of the lion-headed goddess Sekhmet, and to the left, another room with reliefs of Tuthmosis III.

From the small Temple of Ptah, a gateway in the north enclosure wall gives access to the Northern Temple Precinct surrounded by a brick wall.

The north gateway of the temple precinct was built by Pharaoh Ptolemy III Euergetes. In the enclosure wall to the south of the temple is a gateway with the name of Nectanebo II and the remains of a list of the people he subdued.

Within the Northern Temple Precinct is the Temple of Montu, the war god, an old local god of Thebes.

It was built by Amenophis III (18th Dynasty), but was several times altered and enlarged down to the period of the Ptolemies.

The temple is so badly ruined that it is difficult to even make out the ground plan, but the older fragments of sculpture and architectural elements display a high standard of artistic skill.

Outside the north entrance stood two obelisks of red granite, of which the bases and some fragments still remain.

East from the Main Temple of Amun

Just after the eastern exit of the Great Temple of Amun , beyond an unexcavated mound of rubble, is the badly ruined Temple of Ramses II, built on the same axis as the principal temple, which cuts across an older brick enclosure wall.

The entrance doorway, on the east side, leads into a hall with two Osiris pillars, behind which is a narrow Hypostyle Hall . In front of the doorway there was originally a hall dating from the reign of Taharqa, with 20 columns linked by screens.

North of these structures are the remains of another Temple of Ramses II, perhaps dedicated to the cult of Pharaoh Mentuhotep III (11th Dynasty), which was restored in the time of Ptolemies.

South of these remains, to the east of the Sacred Lake , are the remains of a brick building dating from before the Middle Kingdom.

Built against the eastern enclosure wall is a small Temple of Osiris erected by Osorkon III (22nd Dynasty); his son and co-ruler Takelothis III; and his daughter, Shepenwepet.

The front chamber was added by Amenirdis, sister of Kushite Pharaoh Shabaka (25th Dynasty) and mother-in-law of Psammetichus I. In the vicinity are a number of small chapels of the 26th Dynasty.

Beyond the Temple of Ramses II, to the east, is the well-preserved East Gate (now closed) in the brick enclosure wall, which surrounded the whole temple precinct.

Built by Nectanebo I, it stands 19 meters high.

South from the Main Temple of Amun

To the south of Ramses II's enclosure wall around the Temple of Amun lies the Sacred Lake.

In Arabic, it is known as Birket el-Mallaha ("Lake of the Salt Pan"), as the water of the lake is slightly saline.

The lake was probably used for ritual ablutions by the temple's priests.

The walls encircling the lake are well preserved on the west, south, and north sides, from which steps lead down to the water. On the north side is a structure built by Tuthmosis III.

Near the northwest corner are the ruins of a building erected by Kushite Pharaoh Taharqa, and on the edge of the lake is a large granite scarab dedicated by Amenophis III to the sun god Atum-Khepri, who was represented in the form of a scarab.

A short avenue of sphinxes, set up by Ramses XI, the last of the Ramessids, leads to the Temple of Khonsu, dedicated to the Theban moon god (son of Amun and Mut), a characteristic example of the architecture of the New Kingdom.

The temple was built by Ramses III, but the reliefs, apart from those in the innermost chambers, which were completed during his reign, were executed during the reigns of his successors Ramses IV and XII and the priest king Herihor, who also built the forecourt.

The central doorway, with reliefs of Alexander II, leads into the Forecourt , flanked on the right and left by a double row of papyrus columns with closed capitals.

The temple is entered by a large Pylon, 32 meters long, 10 meters deep, and 18 meters high. Like the facades of other temples, it has four vertical grooves, with corresponding apertures in the masonry, for the fixing of flagstaffs.

The reliefs on the towers depict a High Priest of the 21st Dynasty and his wife making offerings to various gods. In front of each tower stood a portico with a wooden roof; the bases of the columns are still in situ.

On the far side of the forecourt, a ramp leads up to the Vestibule with 12 columns. Beyond this is a transverse Hypostyle Hall with eight papyrus columns; the four columns flanking the central aisle have open capitals, while the columns between the lateral aisles (which are 1.5 meters lower than the central aisle) have closed capitals.

On the walls and columns, Ramses XII and Herihor, High Priest of Amun, are depicted sacrificing to various gods.

The door in the middle of the rear wall leads into a larger hall, where the Sanctuary was designed to house the god's sacred boat.

The reliefs on the outer walls depict the pharaoh (Ramses IV or XII) in the presence of various gods. Built into the walls are blocks bearing reliefs and cartouches of Tuthmosis III.

Don't Miss: On each side of the Sanctuary are dark chambers with reliefs of Ramses IV, and to its rear, a doorway built by one of the Ptolemies gives access to a small chamber with four 16-sided columns and the reliefs, which show Ramses IV and (to the right and left of the entrance) the Emperor Augustus in the presence of the Theban gods.

Adjoining are seven small chapels with reliefs of Ramses III and his successor. The colors are particularly well preserved in the reliefs in the two chapels on the right-hand (east) side.

On the long north wall of the rear chapel, the pharaoh, accompanied by Hathor, offers flowers to the falcon-headed Month of Thebes and to the goddess "Sun of the Two Lands, Eye of Re," who is seated in a chapel.

On the west wall, he offers incense and water to a lion-headed, ithyphallic god and to Khons. In another chapel at the northeast corner of the temple, which is dedicated to the cult of Osiris, is a relief of the dead Osiris, with Isis and Nephthys mourning at his bier.

Adjoining the southwest side of the Temple of Khonsu is a small Temple of Osiris and Opet (the hippopotamus goddess of childbirth and mother of Osiris) built by Euergetes II.

It stands on a three-meter-high base topped by a cavetto cornice, with the main entrance on the west side. On the uprights of the doorway, the king is depicted before Osiris and other deities.

The entrance, on the west side, leads into a rectangular hall, with a well-preserved ceiling supported on two columns with floral capitals and Hathor heads. High up on the south wall are lattice windows. To the right are three side chambers with crypts; the door on the left is walled up.

Beyond this is a second hall, with mural reliefs depicting the king in the presence of various deities.

Off this hall open two side chambers. In the left-hand one is a relief of the dead Osiris, with Isis and Nephthys standing by the bier, while the one on the right is dedicated to the birth of Horus.

The relief above the door of this room shows Isis suckling Horus, surrounded by gods; to the left the king brings milk, to the right, a length of cloth. On the lintel, Harsomtus is depicted in a swamp in the guise of a falcon wearing the double crown, protected by the hippopotamus goddess Opet and a lion goddess.

A door with a figure of the goddess Opet leads into the Sanctuary , with a niche, which originally held a statue of the goddess.

The reliefs in the niche show the pharaoh in the presence of Opet, who is represented on the right as a post with a Hathor head and on the left as a hippopotamus.

In the east wall of the temple is a small Chapel of Osiris, built by Ptolemy XIII, with its own entrance on the east side. To this temple belongs the shaft, which stands in the Sanctuary of the Temple of Opet and may have contained a relic of Osiris.

From the 10th Pylon, an avenue of sphinxes dating from the reign of Horemheb (in which stones from Amenophis IV's temple, formerly built into the 10th Pylon, are now deposited) leads to a gateway built by Ptolemy II Philadelphus, with reliefs and long inscriptions, in the enclosure wall of the Southern Temple Precinct.

To the east of the avenue is a Chapel of Osiris-Ptah built by the Kushite Pharaohs, Tanutamun and Taharqa (25th Dynasty), with well-preserved painted mural reliefs.

The gateway leads into an unexcavated area in which large figures of rams, sphinxes, and a large alabaster stela of Amenophis III (usurped by Ramses II) lie around.

Immediately south of the gateway out of the main temple enclosure is the Temple of Mut, also built by Amenophis III. In front of the entrance are pillars bearing figures of the god Bes.

The doorway itself has long inscriptions of the Ptolemaic period (hymns to the goddess Mut) and an inscription of Ramses III, who restored the temple.

The doorway leads into a large court crossed by a processional way flanked by columns, which led to the temple proper.

In the court are numerous seated figures of the goddess Sekhmet dedicated by Amenophis III; on some, his name has been replaced by that of Sheshonq I.

To the left, lying on the ground, are two gigantic figures of Amenophis III (usurped by Ramses II), which formerly stood before the entrance to the temple.

Beyond this is a Second Court, with colonnades along the sides. Fragments of the Hathor capitals of the pillars and of statues of Sekhmet lie around.

To the right of the entrance is a large statue of Sekhmet, to the left, a black granite statue of Amenophis III.

On the far side of the court are a hall with papyrus cluster columns, the Sanctuary, and other rooms, all in a ruinous state.

Sound & Light Show:

• Karnak's Sound & Light Show plays two shows nightly with the first show always in English and the second show in either German, Italian, French, or Spanish depending on the day. As well as booking tickets independently, you can also opt to take a tour.

Timing to Beat the Crowds:

• Karnak opens at 6am, and the earlier you can get here to beat the heat and the tour bus crowds, the better. Whatever you do, avoid 10am to 3pm when the majority of tour buses from the Red Sea disgorge huge groups into the temples.

Timing for Photographers:

• Try to get here for 5pm to see the stonework glow in the late afternoon sun and the grand shadows of statuary cast atmospherically against the walls.

Getting Here

• Walk along the Corniche: If it's not too hot, it's easy enough to walk from downtown Luxor along the Corniche (Nile-side road) to Karnak.
• By Private Taxi: All taxi drivers in town can shuttle you to the site. There are always taxis hanging about at the entrance for when you exit.
• Horse Carriage: Luxor has a huge number of horse and carriage operators that can be used as transport within town. All of them can take you to Karnak.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Luxor and Other Temple Complexes: Find out what else to do in Luxor with our articles on the Top Attractions in Luxor and learn more about the Valley of the Kings . Haven't had enough of temples? Check out our articles on exploring other important sites around Egypt, including Philae , Abydos , Abu Simbel , Kom Ombo and Edfu's Temple of Horus .

More on Egypt

How To Visit Karnak Temple In Luxor Egypt

The Karnak Temple complex in Luxor is one of Egypt’s biggest and most famous ancient buildings (especially the temple of Amun).

Karnak was a huge religious monument built by many pharaohs over the course of 1,500 years of history, and even today you can still see a lot of the original statues, columns, and hieroglyphs in amazing condition.

Table of Contents show 1) Where To Stay 2) History Of Karnak Temple 3) Visiting The Karnak Temple Complex 4) Best Things To See 5) Hours & Entrance Fees 6) How To Get There 7) Best Karnak Temple Tours 8) More Egypt Travel Tips

Where To Stay

Steigenberger

Pyramisa Hotel

Sofitel Palace

History Of Karnak Temple

Construction of the Karnak Temple complex started more than 4,000 years ago (around 2,055 BC) and continued for almost a millennium until the Romans took over Egypt in the late years BC.

Karnak was a place of worship built to honor Egyptian gods like Amun and Osiris. Off and on, Egyptian rulers kept adding new buildings over the centuries, making it even bigger and more impressive as time went on.

It became an important temple city and one of the biggest religious buildings anywhere in the world (although the Angkor Wat in Cambodia beats it out for total size).

Karnak began to decline after the city of Thebes (now Luxor) was sacked by the Romans in the 1st century AD.

Today, Karnak is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Egypt, after the pyramids of Giza .

Visiting The Karnak Temple Complex

Karnak is a huge temple complex covering more than 80 hectares (200 acres), so there’s lots to see here.

Fake guides will insist on showing you ‘photo spots’ or inscriptions to look at, but then demand a tip (baksheesh). Just ignore them or politely say you’re not interested. It’s all part of the Egypt experience.

All in all, if you’re an Egyptian history lover you could spend hours exploring Karnak, but because of the Luxor heat I whisked through in about 1 hour.

Come early in the day if you want to avoid the worst of the heat!

Best Things To See

Some of the best statues and sphinxes can be found near the entrance, in the Great Court between the first and second pylons. There’s a towering figure of Ramesses II and rows of small ram-headed sphinxes.

Don’t miss the hieroglyphs and giant obelisks either. One of these is the tallest obelisk still standing anywhere in the world.

But the highlight of the whole temple for me was the Hypostyle Hall, which is the biggest room of its kind on Earth. Dozens of these huge columns are still standing, and walking through the hall makes you feel like a dwarf.  

Hours & Entrance Fees

• Hours: 6 AM – 5:30 PM
• Entrance Fee:* 200 EGP
• Students: 100 EGP with ID

*If you buy the Luxor Pass, this is one of the temples included in the pass.

How To Get There

Karnak Temple is located on the east bank of the Nile River , in the city of Luxor, Egypt.

The Cairo International Airport (CAI) has 1 hour direct flights to the Luxor airport (LXR) for around $90 USD or less, or you can take a 9 hour day train for around $10 or so. You can shop for flights to Luxor at Skyscanner.

Once you’re in Luxor, it’s easy to find a driver to take you to Karnak and back. It’s a bit far to walk from the town center, especially with the Luxor heat and rabid touts.

Best Karnak Temple Tours

If you would rather go with a vetted tour company and skip the hassle of arranging everything yourself, there are several companies that offer tours to Karnak and other temples in Luxor.

Here is a Luxor day tour package of either the West Bank or East Bank , including popular sights like the Colossi of Memnon , Luxor Temple , Valley of the Kings/ Queens , Karnak Temple, and more.

We’ve used this company for lots of tours and activities around the world, and they’re great. Highly recommended!

More Egypt Travel Tips

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed these travel tips for visiting Karnak Temple in Luxor, Egypt.

Don’t forget to check out my Egypt Travel Guide and complete list of the best things to do in Egypt !

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Visiting Karnak Temple in Luxor: A Practical Guide

Egypt’s Karnak Temple is an imposing display of ancient Egyptian artistry and architecture. Get ready to delve into this fantastic destination that is sure to blow your mind.

If you ever question whether the Ancient Egyptians liked to show off, Karnak should give you a clue. 

This expansive temple complex is unparalleled in terms of scale and detail… I guess that anything that took nearly 2,000 years of construction should be anything but underwhelming.

Planning your visit to Luxor ? You have to visit Karnak. It really is that simple. 

But what should you expect when you get there? And how do you plan your trip? Read on to discover… 

Why Visit Karnak Temple? 

If you’re a bit stuck on why you should visit Karnak temple, I’ll save you the effort. Why wouldn’t you want to visit one of the most impressive Ancient Egyptian landmarks still standing? 

Sure, other sites like the Valley of the Kings and Abu Simbel share equally in the majesty of ancient Egyptian splendour, but all roads lead to Karnak, maybe because it’s the largest religious complex ever built. 

Top Tip: Want to really delve into the history of Karnak? Book this half- or full-day Luxor tour

What Is the Karnak Temple Complex, and Why Does It Exist?

To precisely define what Egypt’s Karnak temple is can be a bit tricky. Not impossible, though. Archaeologists suspect that Karnak had humble (yes, humble) beginnings. It started as a collection of temples dedicated to the Theban deity triad consisting of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu.

But, with what can only reflect the concept of ‘bigger is better’, the complex quickly exploded into an enormous one-stop location for everything religious. 

Karnak became the epitome of worship sites for the entirety of ancient Egypt. This is due to the unparalleled festivals dedicated to many seasons, especially harvest periods.

What You’ll See Inside The Temple of Karnak 

So, you’re sold on adding a guided tour or solo mission to this Egypt temple, but what can you expect to find once there? Well, you’re in for probably the grandest showcase of monolithic structures — second only to those at Abu Simbel.

One can only understand the grand scheme of Karnak once at the site itself. So, let’s go on a deep dive into Karnak – Egypt.

The Entrance Pylon

Now, while all of the pylons at Karnak are noteworthy feats of Egyptian architecture, there is one I must highlight. The last pylon constructed at Karnak in Egypt is the first one you’ll see when approaching the complex. 

Archaeologists note that, although never completed, it was most likely built during the Kushite Dynasty. As you approach the pylon from outside the complex, you’ll see two obelisks flank the main landing. 

Erected by Seti II, the path leads down a small flight of stairs and onto a lane, both sides lined with ram-headed sphinxes. Between the front paws of each of these is a small statue of Ramses II. 

Temple of Ramses III

As you cross through the entrance pylon, you can claim your mark within the grounds of Karnak. The area past the pylon is a large open-air courtyard referred to as the Hypostyle Court. 

To the right lies the Temple of Ramses III. Researchers consider this temple to follow the traditional New Kingdom design and construct. 

Approaching the temple, an entrance pylon will meet you with two six-metre tall Redstone statues flanking each side. Still intact are images of Ramses III in battle and victory over invading armies.

Osiride statues of the pharaoh line the first courtyard. Although faded by time, the crown of the south (in red) and the crown of the north (in white) are still visible atop the heads of these statues.

The temple layout leads to the inner sanctuary (sometimes called the holy of holies). Once inside this chamber, you’ll have access to the three sanctuaries of Amon, Mut, and Khonsu.

The Great Hypostyle Hall

The Great Hypostyle Hall is the crown jewel of this ancient Egyptian temple. It has 134 enormous sandstone columns supporting the roof and twelve columns at the centre towering 20 metres.

Near the top of most of these impressive columns, you’ll still spot traces of the highly detailed and colourful paintings that originally decorated them. 

The hall’s construction started during the reign of Seti I. Depictions of him and his successor, Ramesses II, showcase their victories over Libian, Syrian, and Levant armies. 

The Third Pylon

The construction commissioned by Amenhotep III was the original entrance to the great temple of Amon-Ran — the third pylon. 

What makes this part of Karnak so intriguing is the discovery of hundreds of blocks used to build earlier structures at the core of this pylon.

After venturing through this gateway, you’ll enter the central courtyard. Thutmose I made the first recorded alterations to the original shrine of Amun-Ra here during the 18th dynasty. 

During his reign, he erected the first obelisks at Karnak — one of which still stands in the courtyard in all its original glory.

Hatshepsut’s Standing Obelisk

Rising in between the fourth and fifth pylon is Hatshepsut’s Standing Obelisk. 

Made out of a singular block of pink granite, it is one of the most stunning pieces of Karnak. As one of the two tallest standing obelisks in the world, it towers to a whopping 29.5 metres.

This obelisk, erected in the 16th year of her reign, weighed nearly 330 tons. Transported all the way from Aswan, Egypt , according to the inscriptions you’ll get to see on the base, it took only seven months.

The Sanctuary

The sanctuary lies to the rear of the inner temple grounds. You’ll spot it after passing through the sixth pylon. 

Once inside, you can marvel at the pink granite walls, all adorned with depictions and reliefs of past pharaohs and nobility. 

As you pass through the sanctuary, looking at the roof is worth the stretch of your neck. Set against a pitch-black painted ceiling are golden stars. Depictions of Philip Arrhidaeus (half-brother to Alexander the Great) also feature. 

The ceiling showcases his crowning, presentation to the gods, and his seat at the offering table.

As the corridors of the sanctuary lead around the inner chamber, you can catch glimpses of detailed reliefs showcasing the ascension of the pharaoh.

The Great Festival Temple of Thutmose III

Built to honour Amon-Ra, the Great Festival Temple of Thutmose III lies in the eastern part of Karnak. As one of the pharaohs of Egypt to have claimed victory in seventeen (or so) wars, Thutmose III deserved his place in the house of the gods.

This exquisite temple is 44 metres wide, with 22 columns supporting the structure. Around this temple are an astonishing 50 halls and chambers — each more unique than the previous one. Very few are open to the public. 

All of these lead back to the central courtyard. If you’re a history buff, and because you’re reading this, I know you are, here’s a fun fact. Included in this section of Karnak lies the famous Karnak Cachette.

Discovered in 1904, archaeologists found thousands of stone sculptures, sphinxes, and metal and bronze items here.

The Sacred Lake

Leading east through a doorway, between the 7th and 8th pylon, lies the massive Sacred Lake. This is where priests would come to purify themselves and conduct numerous religious rites.

Walk around the lake as you get an even better view of the magnitude of Karnak. While on the left path that faces Hatshepsut’s Obelisk, you can catch a glimpse of the upper part of said obelisk. 

After taking in the scenery, you can proceed to the 9th and 10th pylons. Built during the reigns of Tutankhamun and Haremhab, this path leads to the temple of Mut (this site is still an ongoing excavation area and closed to the public).  

Temple of Khonsu 

To the west of the southern collection of buildings is the Temple of Khonsu. The moon god Khonsu is the son of the Theban Triad, and we have Ramses III to thank for his temple. 

Ramses IV, Ramses XII, and the usurper priest, Herihor, completed the temple during the 20th dynasty.

Kept safe here is an essential part of Egyptian history in the reliefs on the interior and exterior walls of the temple. This depicts the era in which transmission of pharaonic power from royal bloodlines went over to the high priests of Amon.

Karnak’s History 

Although the jury is still out on when exactly construction at Karnak started, researchers point to the reign of Wahankh Intef II. This would mean that the site we know as Karnak today came into existence roughly 4000 years ago.

The first structure at Karnak was that of an eight-sided sandstone column, which bore the name of Amun-Ra. Historians say this must’ve meant that a temple had stood here during this time. It soon expanded to a temple precinct up until the New Kingdom.

It expanded greatly between 1550 and 1070 B.C., with many of the most famous structures coming to life during this time. Construction ended abruptly when Rome conquered Egypt some 2000 years ago.

Top Facts About Karnak Temple 

30 pharaohs contributed to karnak.

During the 2000 years of construction, approximately 30 pharaohs had a hand in the building of Karnak. This allowed the site to reach its immense size, complexity, and diversity.

An Open-Air Museum

This temple in ancient Egypt is one of the world’s largest open-air museums and the largest ancient religious site (250,000 square metres).

The Hypostyle Hall is Absolutely Enormous

In size, the Great Hypostyle Hall reaches 54,000 square feet. It is so big that the entire Notre Dame Cathedral could easily fit inside it.

It Takes a Village (Or Thousands of Enslaved People)

Nearly 80,000 slaves and servants had the task of worshipping Amon-Ra at Karnak. They erected over 5,000 statues in his honour.

Hatshepsut Was Crazy Ambitious

Known as one of ancient Egypt’s most prolific queens, this woman was quite ambitious. 

Initially planning to construct a second obelisk in her honour, it would have stood at 42 metres and would weigh more than 200 African elephants. 

PS – you should check out Hatshepsut’s Mortuary Temple on the West Bank too 

Planning Your Visit to Karnak Temple, Egypt

As Karnak is the second most visited tourist destination in Egypt, sans the Great Pyramids at Giza, you’re probably wondering how to visit it. Well, let’s have a look.

Visiting Karnak on a Tour 

These are my recommendations for the best tours available:

• This full-day guided tour of Luxor is the perfect way to skip the line to experience Karnak, The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Valley of the Kings.
• This 15-hour excursion to the monuments at Luxor includes lunch and takes you to Karnak and other notable sites.
• Choose either a full or half-day guided tour of the East and West Banks of the Nile from Luxor.
• You can also book the Karnak Sound & Light Show – I didn’t get to try this while I was in Luxor but heard very good things 

Visiting Karnak Temple Independently

Although you get a lot more value out of a guided tour to Karnak, you can also choose to visit it solo. Luckily, Karnak is quite close to the city of Luxor, so you can opt to head to the site via taxi, bus, or rental car.

Ticket Prices for Karnak 

To enter Karnak, you will have to purchase a separate entry ticket. Tickets cost £7 ($9) or £4 ($5) if you’re a student. 

Where to Stay for Karnak Temple 

Jolie ville hotel & spa (mid-range – high-end).

The world-class, 5-star island resort of Jolie Ville sits on the East Bank of the Nile. This is the perfect accommodation for your trip to Karnak, situated on a private island surrounded by 165 acres of landscaped gardens.

With a stunning infinity pool on the edge of the Nile and ten different restaurants on-site, beyond your adventures to Karnak (only 4.5km from the resort), you have everything right here.

Karnak, Luxor: Address 

Karnak, Luxor, Luxor Governorate, Egypt

Opening Times 

Karnak Temple is open daily, with opening hours depending on the season:

• Summer & Spring: 6 am to 7 pm
• Winter & Autumn: 6 am till 5:30 pm

Karnak Temple: Map

Watch My Luxor Guide on Youtube!

Karnak Temple, Egypt: Read Next

• The Ultimate Luxor Travel Guide 
• Visiting the Valley of the Kings 
• Visiting Luxor Temple 
• Why You Should Take a Hot Air Balloon in Luxor 
• Nefertari’s Tomb – Visiting Egypt’s Most Opulent Tomb 
• The Ultimate Egypt Travel Itinerary 
• Top Tips for Planning Your Trip to Egypt
• The Best Things to do in Egypt
• The Insider’s Egypt Travel Guide

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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The Karnak Temple

Overview of the Karnak Temple

The karnak temple, a monumental site of ancient egyptian grandeur, is a pivotal emblem of egypt’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. located in luxor, it’s a captivating testimony to the historical significance and architectural prowess of ancient egypt., historical and religious significance.

• Dedication : Primarily devoted to Amun, the king of gods, the Karnak Temple complex served as a key religious center.
• Construction Timeline : Spanning over 1300 years, with contributions from various pharaohs, the temple evolved through the ages, becoming a grand architectural canvas.

Architectural Splendor

• Scale : One of the largest religious buildings in the world, its immense walls, columns, and obelisks showcase the magnitude of ancient Egyptian architecture.
• Central Structure : The Temple of Amun, at the heart of Karnak, stands out with its expansive halls and the largest existing sacred lake in Egypt.
• Hypostyle Hall : A highlight of the temple, constructed by Ramses II, known for its massive array of towering columns.

Artistic Riches

• Avenue of Sphinxes : A ceremonial pathway connecting the Karnak Temple to the Luxor Temple, lined with sphinx statues.
• Open Air Museum : Houses significant relics, including the White Chapel of Senusert I, the Red Chapel of Hatshepsut, and the Alabaster Chapel of Amenhotep I.

Cultural and Touristic Importance

• Legacy : Represents the zenith of Pharaonic architectural innovation and religious devotion.
• Visitor Experience : Offers a comprehensive insight into the religious practices and architectural advancements of ancient Egypt, attracting a global audience.

The Karnak Temple stands as a monumental legacy of ancient Egypt, offering a window into the religious, cultural, and architectural sophistication of a civilization that continues to fascinate the world. Its grandeur and historical depth make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the mysteries and achievements of ancient Egypt.

Where To Stay

Getting Around

Things To Do

The Luxor Temple

The Valley Of The Queens

The Colossi Of Memnon

Deir El-Madina

The Luxor Museum

Madinat Habu Temple

The Valley of The Kings

No other nation in the world utters ‘Welcome’ as often as the Egyptians, and each time, they truly mean it. While Egypt’s ancient civilization continues to astonish, the contemporary Egyptians are equally remarkable.

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A Guide to Karnak: Egypt’s Largest Temple

Last Updated on: 21st December 2023, 08:53 pm

Karnak, the largest temple ever built by the ancient Egyptians, was in constant use for over 1,500 years. It was in a perpetual state of construction, which is quite fitting, as Karnak Temple was consecrated to creation itself. Accordingly, the complex is massive, and finding your way around can be confusing. This following Karnak Temple guide covers everything there is to see along with the best route to take during your visit.

Karnak, in fact, is considered to be the world’s second-largest temple complex after Cambodia’s Angkor Wat . And the two make for an interesting comparison. While Angkor Wat follows a symmetrical plan that was clearly designed from the start, Karnak seems strikingly chaotic in comparison. Were the builders just making it up as they went along?

Not quite. Egyptian temples typically started with their central sanctuaries and then grew outward from there. This central chapel was considered to be the temple’s ‘seed,’ and its geometry and proportions set the standard for all future constructions.

Richard H. Wilkinson, author of The Complete Temples of Ancient Egypt , observes that when measured in Egyptian cubits, the rate of growth at Karnak follows the Fibonacci mathematical sequence. The sequence, in which each successive number equals the sum of the two numbers preceding it (1, 2, 3, 5, 8, etc.) is found all throughout the natural world.

Fittingly, as these geometrical proportions at both Karnak and in nature, are invisible to the eye of the observer, the temple was consecrated to Amun, or ‘the Invisible One.’ Amun was worshipped as the ‘breath of life,’ or the unseen force behind all creation.

But paradoxically, Amun imagery can be seen all over Karnak! He’s typically depicted wearing his double-plumed headdress, while he also takes the form of the ithyphallic Min-Amun, representing creation manifest as sexual energy. As we’ll cover below, other sections of Karnak are dedicated to the two other deities of the Theban triad, Mut and Khonsu.

Karnak is a chronologically confusing place, and we’ll be jumping back and forth across the timeline of Egyptian history. While we’ll briefly cover the significant pharaohs and their roles below, studying the basics of Egyptian history before your visit is highly recommended.

Visiting Karnak Temple

WHEN TO VISIT: Karnak and Luxor Temple  can both be visited on the same day. Logistically-speaking, it makes more sense to start with Luxor Temple in the early morning before visiting Karnak. That temple is close to most of the hotels on the east bank and it’s just by the ferry port for those coming from the west.

However, if you’re interested in buying the Luxor Pass ( more below ), it can only be purchased at Karnak and not at Luxor Temple.

Luxor and Karnak temples are about thirty minutes apart on foot. After years of excavations, the 2.7 km Avenue of the Sphinxes is finally open to the public, and visitors can now use it to walk between the two temples – just as the pharaohs did in ancient times.

RECOMMENDED ROUTE:  Upon entering the temple, everyone will start their visit from the far western end of the complex. You’ll begin at the first pylon (double gate-like structure). The main east-west axis of the temple features pylons 1-6, while the southern portion of the temple has pylons 7-10.

Walking through the first pylon, you’ll arrive at the Great Court , which also contains a few minor temples within it.

Next, you’ll walk through the Hypostyle Hall , often regarded as Karnak’s main highlight. Keep heading east to check out the two standing obelisks in between the fourth and fifth pylons.

Shortly afterward, you’ll get to the small but highly significant  central sanctuary . Further east, you’ll reach a spacious courtyard with the unique Festival Temple of Thutmosis III .

You’re now finished with the main portion of Karnak Temple. From here there are still the northern and southern sections to explore. Let’s check out the north first.

After briefly checking out the far eastern end of the complex, swing around the north to visit the Temple of Ptah . And nearby to the west is the fascinating Open-Air Museum .

Now backtrack to the obelisks and head south. You’ll see a fallen obelisk just next to the Sacred Lake .

Keep heading south to explore the southern pylons (7-10). Then head west to visit the Temple of Khonsu .

During your visit, if the gates near the Temple of Khonsu or the 10th pylon are open, you should be able to walk directly south to the Precinct of Mut . If not, you’ll have to exit Karnak the way you came and walk about 20 minutes through town to get there.

Entering the Temple

Arriving at the temple through the main entrance, you’ll walk through a processional path lined with sphinxes. But rather than the typical human face on a lion’s body, these sphinxes have the head of a ram.

The ram was a symbol of Amun, the prominent deity worshipped in Thebes. Amun was an ancient primordial god who appeared in Egyptian creation myths. But it wasn’t until the Middle Kingdom period that Amun replaced the war god Montu as the city’s patron deity.

Notably, Amun’s replacement of Montu, who was symbolized by a bull, happened around the shift from the Age of Taurus to the Age of Aries. The shift took place in 2160 BC, right around when the 11th Dynasty reunified Egypt and made Thebes/Luxor the capital.

At the end of the path is the outermost pylon – a gate which resembles the hieroglyph for akhet , or horizon. As such, pylons symbolized the sunrise, though they probably also came in handy as lookout towers.

While we now call it the first pylon, it was actually the last one built. It likely dates to the 30th Dynasty (380-343 BC), the last ever native Egyptian dynasty. Curiously, this pylon was never completely finished.

The Great Court

Next, you’ll enter the Great Court, a spacious area with a whole lot to see. In the center is a double colonnade built by Nubian/Ethiopian king Taharqa (690 – 664 BC). Nearby is an alabaster altar and some impressive statues. 

Elsewhere in the court, you can find some more ram-headed sphinxes along with some additional shrines and temples (more below).

One of the most peculiar aspects of this section is the remnants of the mudbrick ramp. These ramps likely functioned as a type of scaffolding, allowing masons and carvers to work on the higher levels of the walls. But why was it never dismantled?

While we may never know for sure, it’s possible that at Karnak and at other temples, the Egyptians intentionally left certain sections unfinished. As mentioned above, Karnak signified perpetual creation. With that in mind, it’s quite fitting that it was never fully completed!

Amun/Mut/Khonsu Shrine

To the left of the court is a triple shrine built by Seti II (1214 – 1204 BC) which long predates the construction of the pylon. It’s dedicated to the Theban triad of Amun/Mut/Khonsu (as is the entire Karnak complex as a whole). 

On the walls inside, you can find imagery of Amun as a ram on his barge in the night sky. This is further evidence that his rise to prominence in Thebes marked the transition of Taurus into Aries.

It’s likely that these rooms would hold ceremonial barques of each deity. During ceremonial processions, they’d be ritually cleansed here before moving deeper inward.

Ramesses III Temple

On the far right of the court is the entrance to an Amun temple built by Ramesses III. This temple within a temple features statues of the king as Osiris and a Hypostyle Hall with eight papyrus-bud columns. The end of the temple, meanwhile, contains shrines for Amun, Mut and Khonsu.

As you can also see at Medinet Habu , Ramesses III’s mortuary temple on the west bank, his hieroglyphs were carved incredibly deep for some unknown reason.

Just outside of the Ramesses III temple, to the east, is a small portico dedicated to Pharaoh Soshenq of the 22nd Dynasty. It was Shoshenq who defeated Rehoboam, son of Solomon, in a battle that was mentioned in the Old Testament.

Just outside on the outer wall, you can see some of these Biblical battle scenes featuring Shoshenq. Further along the outer wall, meanwhile, are scenes depicting Ramesses II’s victory in the Battle of Kadesh. 

Battle scenes are a common motif at nearly all Egyptian temples. In addition to being historical to some degree, these scenes typically symbolized the forces of light vanquishing the forces of darkness.

For now, head back inside the Great Court and walk toward the second pylon. The pylon was originally built by Ramesses II and then extensively repaired by the Ptolemies.

It’s curious that the Ptolemies repaired the second pylon but never bothered to complete the first. As mentioned above, this was likely deliberate and for symbolic reasons.

The Hypostyle Hall

Karnak’s Hypostyle Hall is considered one of Egypt’s great masterpieces. It was begun by Ramesses I, the founder of the 19th Dynasty, during his brief one-year reign. Work was then continued by his son, Seti I (1306-1290 BC).

Not too much is known about Seti I, and his reign is largely overshadowed by that of his famous son, Ramesses II . But Seti I is responsible for some of Egypt’s greatest architectural and artistic gems. These include the temple at Abydos , his tomb in the Valley of the Kings , and of course, this Hypostyle Hall.

As is the case with many of Seti I’s creations, this hall was later fully completed by Ramesses II.

The spacious hall stretches out to 103 x 53 meters and contains 134 massive columns. The columns represent papyrus thickets which sprang from the primeval swamp (i.e. physical creation). 

While the room is largely open to the sky now, it was originally dark and shadowy, just as one would imagine a primeval swamp to be. The original atmosphere can still be experienced somewhat in certain sections.

This awe-inspiring structure is likely where you’ll be spending most of your time at Karnak. (Of course, this is where most of the tour groups tend to linger as well.) It’s worth making repeated visits here throughout the day to experience it in different lighting conditions.

The inner walls are entirely decorated with intricate relief carvings, many of which depict royal ceremonies that took place here. Originally, only a few would’ve been visible at any given time depending on where the sun was shining.

As mentioned, some of Ramesses II’s military campaigns can be seen on the southern exterior wall. But Seti I’s battles have also been immortalized in the north.

By looking at an overhead map of the columns, one can see that the central rows each have six columns, a number used to represent time and space. The two rows of columns on either side of them, meanwhile, have seven columns each – a number associated with process and growth.

On either side, there were then six rows of nine columns each. Nine represented the Great Ennead, the primordial beings who emerged at the beginning of creation.

According to symbolist researcher John Anthony West, the interplay between 6, 7 and 9 was likely deliberate given the Hypostyle Hall’s association with physical creation.

The Obelisks

At the end of the Hypostyle Hall is the third pylon, mostly built by Amenhotep III of the 18th Dynasty. Interestingly, it was largely comprised of re-used blocks from earlier constructions. Many of the chapels that were recently rebuilt for the Open-Air Museum (more below ) were originally demolished and used for this pylon. 

Past the third pylon is a space known as the Transverse Hall. And shortly after that is what’s left of the fourth pylon, beyond which is an obelisk erected by Thutmosis I.

Obelisks were symbols of the sun, and also likely symbolized the backbone of Osiris. They date back to the Old Kingdom , but took the form we see here from the Middle Kingdom onward. Amazingly, each obelisk is comprised of a single block of granite shipped all the way from Aswan !

Egyptologists have theorized that the ancient builders used a combination of mudbrick platforms and sand-filled holes to set them in their place. But until we can replicate these methods on the same scale, nobody can say for sure.

Nearby is an obelisk erected by Hatshepsut , Thutmosis I’s daughter. At 29.56 m, it’s the tallest obelisk which still stands in Egypt.

The world’s tallest, however, currently stands in Rome. It was first carved by Thutmosis III, Hatshepsut’s nephew and co-regent, and also came from Karnak. (Istanbul’s Obelisk of Theodosius comes from Karnak as well.)

Interestingly, at the time Hatshepsut’s obelisk was erected, this would’ve been Karnak Temple’s western extremity. Later, after Hatshepsut’s death, Thutmosis III built a wall around it, obscuring most of it. Yet his true motives remain unclear.

Thutmosis III destroyed many of Hatshepsut’s public monuments throughout Egypt (though he left her mortuary temple intact). As Hatshepsut was a female pharaoh, some blame Thutmosis III’s actions on misogyny. 

Others believe that they may have had a rocky relationship. Hatshepsut had taken the throne for herself when Thutmosis III, the rightful heir, was deemed too young to rule. Even though they technically ruled as co-regents, Hatshepsut was the main one in charge up until her death.

Notably, even after Thutmosis III built the wall, the upper portion of the obelisk would’ve still been visible. So why didn’t he pull it down? We’ll never know what really happened between these two. But it’s possible that Thutmosis III’s actions were simply fueled by a desire to secure his legacy rather than out of spite.

Considering both the size of the obelisk and the hardness of granite, the level of detail in the carvings is astonishing. Further south is another one of Hatshepsut’s obelisks which has since fallen. And it’s much easier to get a look at the carvings from up close t here. 

But to avoid getting disoriented, let’s continue heading east for now and save the fallen obelisk for later.

The Holy of Holies

Heading east, you’ll reach the central sanctuary – Karnak’s ‘Holy of Holies.’ Given the grandeur of the columns, pylons and obelisks, the significance of this unassuming little shrine may not sink in at first. But this was Karnak’s most sacred structure and the spiritual epicenter of Egypt for centuries.

But what we see today is not the original structure. The first central sanctuary was built during the Middle Kingdom and then replaced with one built by Thutmosis III. And then, over a thousand years later, Alexander the Great’s brother Philip built the shrine we see now.

Many of Thutmosis’s blocks were reused, however. And even some of the original inscriptions have been left untouched.

The central pedestal would’ve been where Amun’s symbolic barque was placed during ceremonies. The ceiling is adorned with stars, while the carvings on the walls are of the standard ceremonial variety. They depict Amun (and the erect Min-Amun) receiving various offerings.

While fairly ordinary in appearance, much of the sanctuary’s power lingers to this day, which many people comment on upon entry. 

As mentioned above, it’s likely that the measurements of this sanctuary set the standard for the proportions by which the rest of Karnak was built.

On either side of the Holy of Holies are some sandstone sanctuaries built by Hatshepsut. And there are also two impressive granite pillars around here. The one to the north is shaped like papyrus and represents Lower Egypt, while the southern pillar resembles a lotus and represents Upper Egypt.

There are also some colossal statues of Amun and his consort, Amunet, that were dedicated by Tutankhamun. But these were under renovation during my visit and obscured by a tarp.

The Festival Temple of Thutmosis III

In the back of the sanctuary is a courtyard containing Middle Kingdom artifacts. In fact, it was likely here that the very first incarnation of Karnak once stood. All around are many chambers and rooms of an unknown purpose, and there are plenty of interesting carvings to discover.

The focal point of this area today is the Festival Temple of Thutmosis III. Notably, like the other kings from his era, he also had a mortuary temple over on the west bank (now largely in ruins). It seems that this temple, then, was primarily built in dedication to Amun but also in remembrance of the king’s military exploits. 

Thutmosis III set off on over a dozen foreign military campaigns, solidifying the largest Egyptian Empire that was known up to that point.

The temple remains in great condition, and it’s also considered to be highly unique. The columns take on an unusual form that can only be seen here.

They’re often described as ‘tent poles.’ Some Egyptologists suspect that Thutmosis chose them out of nostalgia for his military campaigns. The influential symbolist researcher Schwaller de Lubicz, on the other hand, had a different theory. He suggested that these columns function as inverse versions of typical papyrus columns, with the reverse tapers representing the void. 

So in contrast to the Hypostyle Hall, which represents the creation of matter out of spirit, this temple may represent the exaltation of matter back into spirit. (This structure is by far the older of the two, however.)

The colors of the ceiling and on the columns remain vibrant. There’s also a shrine dedicated to Amun with excellent relief carvings. Notice how Amun was often depicted as blue-skinned, much like the gods of Hinduism !

Directly behind the Festival Temple is a sanctuary with three chambers, one of which contains three papyrus columns. This room today is known as the ‘Botanical Gardens’. 

The walls are carved with exotic plants that Thutmosis III observed in Syria – at least according to an inscription. Strangely, many of the plants are actually African!

The Eastern Edge

The very eastern edge of the Karnak’s main east-west axis doesn’t have a whole lot to see. But it’s still worth a brief walk around. Behind the Festival Temple of Thutmosis III is a temple built by Ramesses II, now largely in ruin.

Many of the other ruins are indistinguishable. But further east, there’s a small Osiris temple built by Osorkon IV of the 22nd Dynasty. And nearby you can also see a good portion of the original mudbrick wall which surrounded the entire temple.

The far eastern gate was constructed by Nectanebo I, the founder of the 30th Dynasty – the very last native Egyptian group of rulers. But this area was probably the eastern delineation of Karnak in earlier times as well.

One pharaoh, however, decided to build even further east than this. It was the ‘heretic king,’ Akhenaten . He built a temple to the Aten sun disk before moving the capital entirely to Amarna. Perhaps he wanted his structure to be closest to the rising sun each morning. 

But following his death, his successors usurped the temple’s stone to construct the ninth pylon to the south (more below). Supposedly, there are some old stones still lying around in the dirt, but the eastern gate was locked during my visit.

From here you have the choice of either heading north or south. In this Karnak Temple guide, we’ll be checking out the north side first.

The Temple of Ptah

The Temple of Ptah is a fascinating little temple that most visitors to Karnak miss entirely. The temple was originally built by Thutmosis III and was then renovated and enlarged by Pharaoh Shabaka and the Ptolemies. The Greek influence can clearly be seen in the floral capitals of the columns.

Ptah is a very ancient god who was the patron deity of Egypt’s prior administrative capital, Memphis . Moreover, he was revered as the divine architect of both heaven and earth and he represented the creative fire. 

While Karnak and Luxor as a whole were most definitely Amun’s domain, older gods like Ptah were never forgotten.

There are some excellent carvings both outside and inside the temple. In the central sanctuary, meanwhile, is a statue of Ptah himself. Sadly, he’s now headless.

You’ll likely find the room next door to be locked, but you won’t regret tracking down a guard to open it up for you. (Be sure to have some small change handy.)

In the other sanctuary stands a fully intact black granite statue of Sekhmet, Ptah’s consort. During my time in Egypt, I visited countless temples and shrines, but this is the ONLY place where I encountered a fully intact statue inside of a sanctuary!

The guards let me get up close to the towering statue, but I didn’t dare touch it. The ancient Egyptians believed that divinities could inhabit their statues, and this particular carving would’ve been brought offerings for centuries as if it were a living god.

Outside the temple and further to the north lies the Precinct of Montu dedicated to the original patron deity of Thebes/Luxor. It was off-limits during my visit, however. But further west from the Temple of Ptah is another gem of Karnak that shouldn’t be missed.

The Open-Air Museum

As mentioned above, the third pylon by the Hypostyle Hall consisted of usurped stone from the chapels of prior rulers. Amazingly, archaeologists have managed to salvage many of the original stones and entirely recreate the chapels.

They’re now on display at an open-air museum just north of the Great Court. The area also contains plenty of carved stones that were discovered all throughout Karnak.

The main highlight here is the White Chapel of Senusret I (also known by his Greek name Sesostris). Though Senusret I built a pyramid in Lower Egypt at Al Lisht , he also constructed here at Karnak. In fact, this structure is likely Karnak’s oldest!

The limestone chapel appears simple and unassuming, but there’s more to it than meets the eye. The platform doubles as a measuring rod for various units and subunits of the Egyptian measuring system. And there are also inscriptions detailing the precise measurements of Egypt’s various nomes , or territories. 

According to researcher Lucie Lamy, the proportions of the chapel reveal that the Egyptians had advanced geodesic knowledge, or knowledge of the precise measurements of the earth. A detailed explanation, however, is rather complicated and beyond the scope of this guide. The Great Pyramid’s measurements also reveal similar knowledge.

The carvings along the chapel are of an extremely high quality. The central altar, meanwhile, likely held the king’s solar barque during the Heb-Sed festival, the special ceremony for kings who reigned 30 years or longer.

Nearby is an alabaster chapel of Amenhotep I, while another famous chapel is the red quartzite ‘Chappelle Rouge’ of Hatshepsut. There are also a couple of other New Kingdom-era chapels on display as well.

From here you’ll want to backtrack through the central part of the temple to get to the southern portion. Enjoy another walk through the Hypostyle Hall and then return to the obelisk of Hatshepsut and make a right.

The Sacred Lake Area

Just before the Sacred Lake, you’ll encounter a broken part of Hathsepsut’s other obelisk. The obelisk is famous for the ringing sound it makes when struck. Granite is a highly resonant stone and some researchers suspect that it was highly coveted by  the ancient Egyptians for this reason.

While in the past, visitors could get right up to it, the obelisk is sadly roped off today. But you can at least admire the fantastic details of the engravings. 

It’s hard to believe that such detailed carvings were achieved with nothing but copper chisels, as Egyptologists claim. And it’s highly unlikely that anyone could replicate these designs today without a much harder metal.

Next, turn your attention to the huge Sacred Lake, a common feature at many Egyptian temples. This seems to be one of the only ones currently filled with water. And at over 9,000 square meters, it’s also one of the largest.

The lake symbolized the primordial waters of Nun at the very beginning of creation (very much like the lakes or ponds at Hindu temples ). While hard to see today, the masonry of the walls of the lake’s enclosure also forms the shape of a wave.

Northwest of the lake, there’s a huge stone scarab beetle (a prominent solar symbol) placed by Amenhotep III. The carving beneath it depicts the king making offerings to Atum of Heliopolis .

Nowadays, it’s common to see tourists encircling the beetle seven times. Supposedly, this is meant to solve one’s love problems!

The Southern Pylons

The north-south axis of pylons seven through ten isn’t nearly as remarkable as the main portion of Karnak Temple. But it’s still worthy of a walk around, followed by a visit to the Temple of Khonsu further west. 

The courtyard in front of the seventh pylon, in particular, is noteworthy for a remarkable discovery made there in the early 20th century.

The Karnak Statue Cachette

According to an ancient papyrus scroll, Karnak Temple was once home to a whopping 86,486 statues! This number was long doubted by scholars, however. That is until 1903, when archaeologist George Legrain made an amazing discovery in front of Karnak’s seventh pylon.

In this single location, he found a cache of more than 20,000 statues. There were around 700 made of stone and 17,000 made of bronze. Many of these statues, which include carvings of prominent pharaohs, are now on display at the Cairo Museum and the nearby Luxor Museum.

The reason for such a mass burial of statues, however, remains a mystery. Some suspect that even such a huge temple complex as Karnak eventually became too crowded with them. And perhaps they were buried with proper ritual sometime during the Ptolemaic era, as Ptolemaic statues make up the most ‘recent’ works in the cachette.

The oldest date back to the Old Kingdom (including a statue of Nyussere! ), though most are of New Kingdom-era pharaohs. The most impressive of the bunch is that of Thutmosis III, which shouldn’t be missed at the Luxor Museum.

The ninth pylon, while not all that impressive today, is also of special interest. The pylon was built by Horemheb, the last king of the 18th Dynasty. But it was largely made up of blocks from Akhenaten’s Aten Temple that he built just east of Karnak (see above).

Much of the artwork, which was inscribed on what we now call talatat blocks, was discovered and reassembled. It’s now on display at the Luxor Museum, in addition to some of Akhenaten’s bizarre colossal statues. (Learn more here .)

At the far southern end of the complex, you’ll find the Festival Temple of Amenhotep II, a militaristic king who loved to show off his physical strength and hunting skills. The temple is largely ruined, especially when compared with that of his father, Thutmosis III.

The southern gate was locked during my visit, but it should be opened sometime in the near future. The sphinx-lined path beyond it leads directly to the Precinct of Mut. Annoyingly, while the Mut area is still open, one has to exit Karnak and take a long detour through town to get there.

For now, let’s head west to visit the impressive Temple of Khonsu.

The Temple of Khonsu

Khonsu, as mentioned above, is part of the Theban triad together with Amun and Mut. The deity is sometimes depicted as having a hawk head and at other times as human. In any case, Khonsu is associated with the moon and lunar cycles.

Despite being a male deity, Khonsu is also typically associated with things like fertility, healing and childbirth.

The Temple of Khonsu was started by Ramesses III but most of the reliefs were finished by later successors.

The forecourt contains a series of thick columns, while there are even more in the vestibule. The reliefs are pretty typical and mostly depict royals presenting offerings to divinities. But they’re very well preserved and worthy of close attention.

During my visit, much of the temple’s interior was roped off and inaccessible. But as common at Egyptian temples, the guard will happily grant you VIP access in exchange for a small tip. The guard here even led me to the roof, which provides a clear view of the staggering amount of stones recovered from around the complex. 

The view from above reveals how there was once even a lot more at Karnak than what we can see today. Visitors are free to walk around this area, which functions as an additional open-air museum.

Just nearby is the small Ptolemaic-era Temple of Apet. Apet was the hippo goddess of fertility. In fact, the entire temple complex of Karnak, given its link with physical creation, was also commonly associated with Apet. In ancient times, Karnak was called Apet-Sut, or ‘Enumerator of the Places.’

While the door was locked during my visit, I could peek in through the side screens. There were some Ptolemaic-style Hathor columns in addition to colorful reliefs.

The Precinct of Mut

As mentioned above, the Precinct of Mut is directly across from the final, southernmost gate of Karnak. If the gate opens up someday, it should be a quick and straightforward walk to get there.

If not, exit Karnak the way you came, and then use an app on your phone to navigate your way through the backroads. The extended walk takes around twenty minutes or so in total. ( I had to ask three or four staff members at Karnak before I could get any information about this.)

The Mut temple area is open, but requires its own ticket. I just used my Luxor Pass, but if you don’t have the pass, try asking about the required ticket at Karnak’s main ticket kiosk.

As seen today, the Precinct of Mut is in bad shape and very little remains intact. But there’s still plenty of interesting features for old ruins enthusiasts to enjoy.

Mut was one of Amun’s consorts. She, along with Hathor, Sekhmet and Isis , was one of many personifications of the Egyptian concept of the Great Mother. 

Though there’s not a whole lot of Mut imagery around, you will find a massive collection of seated Sekhmet statues. But why so many?

The statues were commissioned by Amenhotep III of the 18th Dynasty, who also built this temple. Sekhmet, the consort of Ptah , was simultaneously the goddess of healing and destruction. 

While details are murky, some researchers suspect that there was a plague ravaging Egypt during Amunhotep III’s reign. And what better divinity to pray to than a fierce lioness who can also heal? (Eerily, these statues seem especially relevant at the time of writing.)

The heir to the throne, a prince named Thutmosis, died around this time. And his replacement was Amenhotep III’s other son, Amunhotep IV. Today, we know him as Akhenaten.

In addition to the ones here, numerous seated Sekhmet statues have made their way to museums all around the world. It’s estimated that Amenhotep III commissioned as many as 700 of them!

Elsewhere around the complex are some broken colossi, ruined temples from various later pharaohs, and some statues of Amenhotep III himself. Thankfully, the Precinct of Mut contains a lot of informational signage about what each particular area was used for.

The Precinct of Mut also has its own Sacred Lake, which appears surprisingly natural compared to the one at Karnak.

If you still have yet to visit Luxor Temple , now is the time to head over there. As mentioned above, Karnak Temple represents the creation of the physical universe. Luxor Temple, on the other hand, is dedicated to man and the universal principles embodied within him.

In other words, Karnak is the macrocosm while Luxor Temple is the microcosm. And the two temples were originally connected by a long sphinx-lined causeway. For the first time in modern history, excavators are working on clearing the entire 2 km path for tourists to enjoy. ( Update : the pedestrian road is now open.)

Additional Info

Egypt can be a difficult country for independent travelers. The tourism industry has primarily relied on package group tours for decades. For some reason, it seems as if the government doesn’t really want tourists to take public transport. But it’s thankfully still possible.

The easiest way to get from Cairo (or Aswan) to Luxor is by public train. The train from Cairo to Luxor takes about 9 or 10 hours and there are both day trains and night trains. Strangely, the night train (which the government prefers tourists to take) can cost over $100!

Yet the day train only costs a couple hundred Egyptian pounds, or roughly $13 USD. But if you go to the train station and try to buy a ticket in person, they will NOT sell it to you. They will only offer you the expensive night train tickets.

Luckily, even though they don’t sell tickets to foreigners in person, it’s still perfectly legal for foreigners to ride the day trains. The trick is to just buy them online from the official Egyptian National Railways site and print them out before departure.

It seems like you can’t reserve more than a couple of weeks in advance. Furthermore, you will need to create an account on the web site and agree to the terms before searching. If you’re not signed in, the search will turn up blank.

Here is an excellent resource for all train timetables in Egypt. It’s worth going for the nicest AC1 trains, which are still quite cheap. Snacks and coffee are sold onboard. But expect the entire cabin to reek of smoke, as people constantly use the space in between the train carriages as a smoking lounge.

If you’re not able to book online for some reason, here’s another solution: simply show up at the station, hop on the train and sit down. When the ticket inspector comes by, pay him. Strangely, while you can’t buy tickets from the ticket booth, this method is completely acceptable.

Learn more about Egypt travel in our Ultimate Ancient Egypt Itinerary .

During your visit to Luxor, it’s well worth getting the Luxor Pass if you plan on spending more than a few days there. There are two versions of the pass and both are valid for five consecutive days.

The PREMIUM version costs $200 and allows access to every site in Luxor, including the tombs of Nefertari (1400 EGP) and Seti I (1000 EGP).

The STANDARD pass costs $100 and includes everything in Luxor minus the tombs of Nefertari and Seti I. Together, those tombs cost around $150, so the PREMIUM pass is worth it if you’re interested in seeing them. ( Learn more about prices  HERE )

Adding up the individual ticket costs of all the attractions I visited in Luxor, I saved a significant amount of money with the pass. The best part, though, was the convenience. The ticket system for sites around the west bank is confusing, with the ticket booths often far apart from the sites themselves. 

Without the pass, if you ride past something that looks interesting, you can’t just go in. You’ll have to find the ticket booth and then ride back again. The pass is perfect, then, for those who like to explore. 

Furthermore, the pass allows for multiple visits to each attraction. You can visit the expensive tombs multiple times, while photographers can freely return to temples to get optimal lighting conditions.

Note that if you’re coming from Cairo and already have the Cairo Pass ($100 USD), you can get 50% off the Luxor Pass! The deal even works with the  PREMIUM Luxor Pass, allowing you to get it for $100! 

Considering all that I visited, with both passes I  saved over $250  in Cairo and Luxor.

To get the Luxor Pass, you’ll need to bring your original passport, a copy of your passport, a passport photo (exact size isn’t so important) and USD in cash. And be sure to bring your Cairo Pass for the discount. 

At the time of writing, the Luxor Pass can only be purchased at Karnak Temple and possibly near the Luxor Museum. (For whatever reason, many locals in the tourism industry don’t seem to know about this pass. Check the Egypt Tripadvisor forums for the most up-to-date information.)

I bought mine at Karnak and annoyingly, the guys at the desk are running a little scam. They claimed that I needed a photocopy of the Cairo Pass even though I had the original. They wanted an extra 200 EGP for them to make a simple photocopy. Just eager to get on with my day, I haggled it down to a 50 EGP ‘fine.’ At least I still got the 50% discount.

I don’t think a photocopy of the Cairo Pass is an actual requirement, and they were probably just making it up. From what I read online, they told other people completely different reasons for why they needed to pay more.

In Luxor, the east and west banks of the Nile River couldn’t be more different. The east is the bustling city center where most of the hotels and restaurants are located. This is where you’ll find the train station and the Luxor Museum. And of course, Karnak and Luxor Temples.

The west bank is much quieter and less developed. But overall, the west bank has more tourist attractions. Not only are all the tombs here, but there are plenty of mortuary temples to visit as well. While you can see everything on the east bank in a single day, you’ll need two or three full days to explore everything on the west bank.

That’s why I recommend staying on the west bank. And as the area gradually develops, there are a lot more hotels to choose from nowadays.

Overall, the west bank is pretty spread out. But if you stay close to the ferry port, you’ll get the best of both worlds. Not only will you get a head start on visiting the west bank attractions each morning, but getting to the east side and back will be easy as well.

To really make the most of your time in Luxor, I recommend staying on the west bank, getting the Luxor Pass (see above) and renting a bicycle. You can rent a bicycle for the day from numerous west bank shops at somewhere between 30 – 50 EGP.

I stayed at a place called Sunflower Guest House which was right by the ferry port. The rooms were spacious and clean and I had no issues with my stay. But after my arrival, I discovered that there are plenty of other accommodation options right nearby.

For those who still want to stay on the east bank, Bob Marley Guest House seems to be the most popular place for backpackers. And those with a much bigger budget tend to stay at the Winter Palace .

If the Winter Palace is out of your budget, nearby is the  Iberotel Luxor , which offers a luxurious atmosphere at a more modest price.

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Karnak Temple

Luxor is one of Egypt’s most precious inheritances when it comes to Egyptian ancient civilization. With a vast number of incredible ancient monuments, one of Luxor’s great temples is the Karnak Temple.

The Karnak Temple Complex consists of a number of temples, chapels, and other buildings in the form of a village, and is for that reason that the name Karnak was given to this complex as in Arabic Karnak means ‘fortified village’.

Where is the Karnak Temple located?

The Karnak temple is located in Karnak, in Luxor Governorate, in the south of Egypt on the east side of the Nile River bank.

When was the Karnak Temple built?

The Karnak Temple dates back from around 2055 BC to around 100 AD. It was built as a cult temple and was dedicated to the gods Amun, Mut, and khonsu. Being the largest building for religious purposes ever to be constructed, the Karnak Temple was known as “most select of places” by ancient Egyptians.

Who were the gods Amun, Mut, and Khonsu?

Also Known as Amon, Ammon, and Amen, Amun was the Egyptian god of the sun and air. Regarded as one of the most important gods, Amun is the ancient Egyptian civilization during the beginning of the rise of the New Kingdom from 1570 to 1069 BCE.

Also known as Maut and Mout, Mut was a goddess worshiped by ancient Egyptians. The meaning of her name is ‘mother’ and therefore she was known as the mother goddess. For some, she was known as the mother of everything in the world, and for others, they recognized her as the mother of the moon child god khonsu.

Known as the son of goddess Mut, Khonsu was the ancient Egyptian god of the Moon. The meaning of his name is ‘traveler’.

The Importance of the Karnak Temple

During the New Kingdom, the Karnak Temple Complex was the center of the ancient faith while power was concentrated at Thebes (modern-day Luxor) and its significance is reflected in its enormous size. 

In addition to its religious significance, it was also served as a treasury, administrative center, and palace for the New Kingdom pharaohs. It is to this day considered as the largest temple complex ever constructed anywhere in the world.

It developed over a period of 1500 years, added to by generation after generation of pharaohs and resulting in a collection of temples, sanctuaries, pylons, and other decorations that is unparalleled throughout Egypt.

While the height of its importance was during the New Kingdom and during the reigns of famous pharaohs such as Hatshepsut, Tuthmose III, Seti I and Ramesses II, all contributed significant additions to the complex, construction continued into the Greco-Roman Period with the Ptolemies, Romans, and early Christians all leaving their mark there.

Visiting the Karnak Temple Complex

Karnak is divided into three compounds: the precinct of Amun, the precinct of Mut, and the precinct of Montu; however, for most visitors the largest of these, the precinct of Amun, is enough. It is a complicated layout alone dwarfs every other site that you will visit in Egypt.

The precinct of Amun contains all of the most famous sections of the Karnak complex, including the dizzying Great Hypostyle Hall. This hall of 134 massive columns is one of the most impressive places in all of Egypt. Going into the detailed description of the different elements that make up the complex is a near-endless task that we will leave to a tour guide to explain it while you awe at it.

Instead, we will simply suggest that you allow plenty of time to explore this huge complex and admire the many impressive sights within it. Imagine how awe-inspiring it must have been over 2000 thousand years ago when these huge structures were newly constructed.

Like all of the major sights in Egypt, Karnak has a sound and light show that is offered in several different languages. The show takes place 3 times a night, but you should consult your tour guide or your hotel about the languages of the various showings.

Wadjet Hall

Wadjet Hall was first built by Thutmose I, near the main sanctuary, between the fourth and fifth pylons. The hall measures about 246 feet by 46 feet; it was used for the king’s coronation and heb-sed festival.

The heb-sed festival usually would take place 30 years after a king came to the throne and then every three years afterwards. During this festival, the king would run around a heb-sed court performing feats of strength to demonstrate his ability to continue to rule Egypt.

The Great Hypostyle Hall

Great Hypostyle Hall is perhaps the most fantastic building at Karnak. It was built to the west to the main sanctuary, along the main entranceway. It was constructed by King Seti, a king who ruled from 1290 to 1279 B.C. 

The building is about 337 feet by 170 feet. There are 134 columns in total; the largest twelve are 70 feet high and support the central part of the structure. The other 122 columns are about 40 feet tall.

On the outside walls are scenes showing Seti and his successor, Ramesses II, smiting their enemies from Libya, Syria and the Levant. Not long after its construction, the hall became the setting for coronation and heb-sed ceremonies, replacing the Wadjet hall.

Karnak’s Pylons

Starting in the New Kingdom and continuing in the centuries after, Egyptian rulers would gradually create a series of 10 pylons at Karnak. These pylons would function as gateways of sorts; they were connected to each other through a network of walls.

The Pylons were often decorated with scenes depicting the ruler who built them.

At Karnak, the pylons start near the main sanctuary and go in two different directions. One set of six pylons faces west, towards the Nile River and ends in an entrance lined with an avenue of small sphinxes and the other set of four pylons faces south along a processional route used for ceremonies.

Interesting Facts about the Karnak Temple

● Karnak is an open-air museum. It is considered to be the largest religious building or site in the world.

● The 54,000 square feet Great Hypostyle Hall in the Karnak Temple is large enough to fit the Cathedral of Notre Dame comfortably.

● Over eighty thousand servants and slaves were assigned the task of serving Amon-Ra in Karnak, showing his power and importance at the time, also 5,000 statues were erected in his honor.

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Duration: 2 days.

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Duration: 12 hours.

2 Days Tour to Cairo And Luxor from Safaga Port

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The temple complex of Amun-Ra at Karnak and its neighbouring buildings, 3 km (1.75 miles) north of the centre of Luxor , constitute the most awe-inspiring of all the Egyptian monuments. Apart from the immense conglomeration of elements that makes up the temple itself, it also has a particularly complicated plan. Unlike most other temples in Egypt, it was developed over many centuries on both an east–west axis, with six pylons, and on a north–south axis with four pylons. These 10 pylons, together with intervening courts, halls and enclosures, surround the nucleus of the sanctuary.

Karnak Temple, The Most Esteemed of Places

Karnak, known as Ipet-Sut, “The Most Esteemed of Places”, was one of the most important religious and intellectual centres in antiquity, and for more than 13 centuries successive pharaohs were proud to enhance its magnificence.

Put aside two half days to see the most important monuments, one starting early in the morning to be seduced by the temple’s mystery, and one in the afternoon when the stones and carvings glow in the sun.

The local god Amun-Ra became more important during the early Middle Kingdom, and during the 12th Dynasty, several temples were erected in his honour. Their foundations were found underneath the later temples.

The origins of the Karnak Temple as we now see it are attributable to the royal family of the 18th Dynasty (1550–1292 BC), who made Amun-Ra the state god, and whose rise to power brought the city of Thebes to the heights of glory. Three Tuthmoses and Queen Hatshepsut were responsible for most of the inner parts of the temple.

Ram-headed sphinx in Great Court of Karnak Temple, Luxor © Shutterstock

Best things to do in Karnak

From the Great Hypostyle Hall to the hidden obelisks of Hatshepsut, here are the best things to see at Karnak.

#1 See the shrines of The First Court

An avenue of ram-headed sphinxes leads to the unfinished First Pylon, built by Nectanebo I during the 30th Dynasty. The First Court, enclosed by colonnades on both sides, includes several shrines: the Temple of Seti II, the Colonnade of Taharga and the Temple of Ramesses III.

#2 Marvel at the Great Hypostyle Hall

The Second Pylon, built using blocks from earlier structures, leads into one of the architectural marvels of the world, the Great Hypostyle Hall. Seti I (1291–1278 BC) completed the mighty work started by Amenhotep III, and built the largest hall of any temple in the world, with 134 huge columns, covering an area of 6,000 sq metres (19,700 sq ft).

It was completed under Seti’s son, Ramesses II (1279–1212 BC), who placed the colossi of himself at the entrance. The northern walls are decorated with remarkable bas-reliefs of Seti I’s battles in Syria and Lebanon, while the southern walls show similar themes, in a much cruder style, of Ramesses II’s Battle of Kadesh.

#3 Seek out the hidden obelisks of Hatshepsut

Behind the Fourth Pylon lies the inner core and oldest part of the temple, starting with the Hypostyle Hall of Tuthmosis III. In this court stands one of the obelisks erected by his stepmother Hatshepsut (the second toppled over centuries ago and has been placed near the Sacred Lake).

Hatshepsut dominated the family after her husband and brother Tuthmosis II’s death in 1518 BC. Tuthmosis III despised his coregent/stepmother, and as soon as she was out of the way, proceeded to hack her name away from cartouches, substituting his own. He walled up most of the 320-tonne obelisks that she had erected, thus unwittingly preserving her work in pristine condition.

#4 Wander through the Festival Hall of Tuthmosis III

Tuthmosis III (1504–1450 BC) proceeded to reign long and brilliantly, waging 17 successful campaigns and extending the Egyptian Empire from Syria to Sudan. He brought back thousands of prisoners and immense quantities of booty, as well as new varieties of trees and plants, new ideas and new fashions.

The annals of his career are inscribed on the walls surrounding the sanctuary and extend to his great Festival Hall and to the southern courts.

#5 Peek at the Temple of Mut

Succeeding generations added new pylons, courts and subsidiary temples, all lavishly and colourfully illustrating their conquests, like a great stone history book. Amenhotep III contributed a pylon and the Temple of Mut.

Though the capital moved away to the Delta and the importance of Thebes declined thereafter, Karnak continued to be expanded and embellished, such was the awe in which Amun-Ra was held.

Karnak Great Hypostyle Hall © Shutterstock

Best places to stay in Karnak

As Karnak is a small village located on the East Bank of the Nile River in Luxor, accommodation is limited . However, most travellers stay close by and travel to the temple complex. Here's where to stay near Karnak.

Luxor city centre is the main tourist hub in the area on the East Bank of the Nile River, just a few miles south of Karnak. Here you will find a wide range of hotels to suit all budgets and preferences.

North of Karnak

There are a handful of basic hotels located just north of the Karnak Temple Complex as well as a Hilton.

For a more tranquil and peaceful setting, stay on the West Bank of the Nile . Here you will find several charming guesthouses and boutique hotels, as well as stunning views of the river and the surrounding desert landscape.

Browse the best hotels in Karnak .

Things to know before visiting Karnak

Karnak is a must-see for any traveler visiting the country. However, before you set foot in Karnak, there are a few things you should know to make the most of your visit.

Opening hours

The Temple of Karnak is open daily. In the summer the opening hours are 6am to 6:30pm (to 5:30pm in winter). Tour guides, however, typically start at 9am. During the hottest months, visit in the early morning or late afternoon as the sun can be overbearing here.

Ticket prices for the temple are 65 EGP for regular admission and 35 EGP for students (ID required). There is also an all-inclusive entrance ticket for 200 EGP, which gives you entry to both the temple complex and the open-air museum. These can be bought at the Karnak entrance.

Guide Karnak tours typically last around two-and-a-half hours. These can be booked at the main tourist office opposite the train station.

Dress modestly for your visit in clothes that cover both your knees and shoulders.

Sound and light show

One of the highlights of visiting the Temple of Karnak is the sound and light show, which is held three times a night in English, French, and Arabic. During the performance, you will walk through the complex while learning about the history of Thebes and the pharaohs.

The last act is played while the audience is seated at the Great Sacred Lake. To get to Karnak in the evening, you can hire a taxi or calèche, and your driver will wait while you watch the show.

Queen Hatshepsut Obelisk in the Amun Temple enclosure in Karnak, Egypt © Shutterstock

How to get here

Located in Luxor, there are a few ways to get to Karnak without much fuss.

The nearest airport to Karnak is Luxor International Airport, which receives domestic and international flights. It is located around 7 km away from the temple complex.

Luxor is well-connected by train to other cities in Egypt , including Cairo . There are several daily trains from the capital to Luxor, and the journey takes around 9 hours. Once you arrive at Luxor Railway Station, you can take a taxi or a local bus to Karnak.

There are also daily buses from Cairo to Luxor, as well as from other major cities in Egypt. The journey takes around 10 hours from Cairo. Once you arrive at the bus station in Luxor, you can take a taxi or a local bus to Karnak.

Find out the best ways to get to Egypt .

Best time to visit Karnak Temple

Since Karnak is located in Luxor, Egypt, the best time to visit Karnak is during the winter months from November to February when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities. During this time, the daytime temperature averages around 25°C (77°F), and the nights are cooler.

The summer months from May to September can be extremely hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). It can be challenging to explore the outdoor attractions during the day due to the intense heat, and it's not recommended to visit Karnak during this time.

However, if you decide to visit during the summer months, it's advisable to plan your visit for the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are slightly cooler.

The spring months of March and April and the autumn months of October and November can also be a good time to visit Karnak, as the weather is still pleasant, and the crowds are fewer than during the peak season.

Find out more about the best time to visit Egypt .

Travel ideas for Egypt, created by local experts

8 days  / from 1999 USD

The Best of Egypt

Explore the history and culture of Egypt and its ancient rulers on this trip throughout the country. Start and end in Cairo and make your way down to Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel. Instead of domestic flights, you will hop on luxurious sleeper trains for your journey.

13 days  / from 5499 USD

Cairo & a luxurious Dahabieh sailing cruise

Explore Egypt at a leisurely pace on board a dahabieh, a traditional sailing ship. In Cairo, visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, and in Giza, the pyramids; cruise to world-renowned sites alongside lesser-known treasures, such as Luxor’s tombs, el Kab and Gebel Silsileh’s Temple of Horemheb.

8 days  / from 2200 USD

A Nile Cruise in Egypt

Experience Cairo with the pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian museum before flying to Luxor to board your Nile cruise. Highlights include Karnak temple, Valley of Kings, Hatshepsut temple and an optional visit to Abu Simbel. Spend your last night in fascinating Cairo.

The Rough Guides to Egypt and related travel guides

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 03.05.2023

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Karnak en Egipto

Karnak en Egipto o también conocida en el Antiguo Egipto como “el lugar más venerado”. Se trata de una población pequeña que forma parte de la Antigua Tebas, ha sido declarado Patrimonio de la Humanidad por la Unesco en 1979. Es en realidad uno de los templos más grandes de todo el país.

Se encuentra en la ribera oriental del rio Nilo frente a Lúxor. Por lo que si deseas explorar más a fondo esta parte del pasado del medio oriente, podrás disfrutar de todo lo que tiene esta localización.

¿Qué ver y visitar en Karnak?

Existen muchas respuestas a esto, y más si tomas en consideración que el Templo de Karnak es el templo más grande del país. Incluso en el presente no se conoce la totalidad de sus restos porque se siguen encontrado nuevos con el pasar del tiempo.

En su interior contiene el gran templo de Amón al igual que otros templos de menor tamaño, capillas y un gran lago sagrado. Pero lo que se considera más resaltante su sala hipóstila. Esta tiene más de 5000 metros cuadrados y 134 columnas. De esas, 12 columnas eran centrales y se elevaban hasta el techo que en la actualidad ya no existen.

En su entrada podrás observar 40 esfinges con cabeza de carnero y se trata del comienzo de la Avenida de las Esfinges, que con anterioridad llegaba hasta el Templo Lúxor y el rio Nilo.

Mejores Destinos en Karnak

8.templo de amenhotep iv.

También denominado como el portentoso Templo de Atón, es un enigmático recinto de gran popularidad mientras se realizaba su construcción por dicho faraón mientras este seguía regente después de 4 años de mandato real en su XVIII dinastía. Y en donde luego de ser completamente terminada dicha obra de gran importancia arquitectónica conformada en su mayoría por  pequeños bloques de piedra arenisca. Fue posteriormente abandonado luego de la muerte de dicho rey. Y reutilizado en lo que quedaba de su estructura aun en pie ubicada  hacia una escasa distancia del famoso Templo de Amón en Karnak, y de donde el espacio compuesto de acuerdo a su exclusivo nivel de prioridad, fue totalmente demolido  tanto desde su propia área principal mejor conocida como “Gempaaten”, hasta el restante de sus otras estructuras secundarias, justo durante el flamante reinado del Imperio Nuevo en Egipto. Así como dado por eliminadas gran parte de la vida, obras y demás curiosidades importantes del gran Akenatón, mientras su siguiente predecesor se mantenía gobernando en ese entonces; motivo por el cual no deja de ser un lugar de máxima visita obligada, a pesar de conservarse muy poco de sus rastros físicos, su marcada huella histórica no deja de encontrarse presente en el lugar y de llamar poderosamente la atención de todo aquel que se aventure a descubrir este y todas las demás espectaculares cercanías faraónicas que se encuentran en el sitio.

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7. Templo de Ramsés II

Aunque en todo el complejo de Karnak y otras obras monumentales de elevado tamaño y fuerza arquitectónica fueron erigidos por órdenes directas del célebre faraón guerrero y constructor Ramsés II, muy cerca de otra de sus impactantes aportes esculturales en el vasto Santuario de Amón-Ra en esta misma región, se puede observar al día de hoy poco de lo que ha quedado sumergido en el olvido y el desgaste de uno de sus antiguamente formidables templos creados con el fin de rendir culto y alabanza a esta trascendental figura real durante mucho tiempo atrás. En donde aún es posible detallar entre sus amontonados alrededores cómo se erige gran parte de sus instalaciones también decoradas con la típica etimología caligráfica egipcia en cada uno de sus rincones como es observado no solo en su gran sala hipóstila, sino en sus columnas, paredes y puertas, tanto en su parte interior como en lo descontinuado de su aspecto exterior. Además de otros recintos mortuorios basados no solo en este sino en otro destacado gobernante real: el hijo y sucesor de Montuhetep II, considerado como el 6to rey de la dinastía XI egipcia. E incluidas otras subestructuras y monumentos de diverso valor histórico que según los historiadores datan desde mucho antes de la dinastía ptolemaica y del destacado Reinado Intermedio de Egipto.

6. Lago Sagrado

Establecido en su mayor parte en la antiquísima ciudad de Luxor, este preciado lago salado de aspecto cuadrado, conectado a su parte más profunda por unas prácticas escalinatas descendentes,  y a paredes rocosas. Presume en conservar los vestigios de las viviendas de los fieles sacerdotes egipcios que siempre se disponían a las órdenes de la máxima grandeza real faraónica regente en ese momento, datadas desde más allá de la pasadas dinastías XXVI- XXVII de Egipto, que se ha convertido por este motivo en un lugar de múltiples excavaciones, en donde se han descubierto a su vez y hasta esta fecha; numerosos artilugios artesanales, además de diferentes piezas de uso diario, y otras tantas joyas y artefactos de marcado valor antiguo; ya sean de oro, plata o de otros tipos de materiales preciosos, que no hacen más que demostrar el gran nivel jerárquico de dichos representantes a los que se les asignaba la exclusiva labor de conexión espiritual a los dioses. Sin contar con otra de las llamativas estructuras mortuorias y arqueológicas de gran tamaño y emblema transportado según muchos cuentan, desde el respetado santuario fúnebre del gran faraón de la dinastía XVIII llamado Amenofis III, y exhibido como una gigantesca escultura en forma de escarabajo que rinde honor a dicho rey y a la poderosa deidad Khepri. Asociado de esta forma a este lago como un importante hito a la formación de la vida según la mitología egipcia, del cual se le aproximan otras atracciones antiguas de interesante trayectoria antigua, como es el caso de los restos de una obra arquitectónica que se encuentra parcialmente devastada, pero que fue construida por el valeroso Nefertumjura Taharqo del Tercer periodo intermedio de Egipto, así como de un fastuoso recinto inacabado del joven estratega y faraón Menjeperra Dyehutymose en sus flancos este y norte respectivamente, entre otros.

5. Templo de Khonsu

Expuesto al día de hoy como un alucinante museo al aire libre, es lo que se conoce antiguamente como un importante espacio de gran adoración y rito al hijo del afamado dios Amon y la diosa Mut llamado “Jonsu”, que dejaba ver su triple participación divina como una de tipo tebana. En donde al ser edificado por parte del  indiscutible Ramsés XI, conocido por muchos como el último rey de la dinastía XX que marca el punto final del Reino Nuevo de dicho imperio ramésido y a su vez el principio del 3er periodo intermedio egipcio. En la cual la exótica decoración y brillo de dicho recinto se caracteriza en su mayor parte en ser conformada en primera instancia por materiales minerales básicos de arenisca y piedra, mientras que más adelante y con el posterior desarrollo de otros gobernantes se le fueron anexando varias renovaciones arquitectónicas y estructurales a cada  una de las instalaciones de dicho templo que van desde su gran patio trasero, además de sus apoteósico salón hipóstilo o sus recamaras internas, sin contar con lo elevado de sus puertas, vestíbulo, pasillos, pilón principal, pilares, techado y más. Que exponen con marcado detalle entre sus espectaculares ilustraciones jeroglíficas perfectamente talladas cómo es que los tantos diferentes mandatarios reales que han puesto su mano de obra aquí hacen ofrendas y demás sacrificios a los dioses desde el mismo momento de su reinado, como es el caso del sacerdote de altísima clase hacia el magnificente dios Amón, mejor conocido como Herihor; o de los tantos regalos procedentes del venerable Ramsés XII o en donde sorprende haberse encontrado varias de las titulaturas faraónicas del osado rey egipcio Thutmose III, entre otros.

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4. Kiosco de Sesostris

Compuesto estructuralmente de caliza en la mayoría de sus espacios, esta impresionante joya arquitectónica pertenece a la época en la que aún gobernaba el segundo faraón del Imperio Medio de Egipto correspondiente a la gran dinastía XI, y llamado Jeperkara Senusert. En donde se puede denotar en la actualidad cómo este memorable lugar sirvió en aquella época antigua com o un destacado recinto en donde se le rinde homenaje a la popular Fiesta de Heb Sed, con el objetivo simbólico de otorgarle a dicho gobernante real egipcio la potestad de aumentar su gran poderío espiritual y físico a través de este solemne  acto ceremonial que tenía como periodo de duración mínimo de 3 a 10 días ya sea desde el 1er o 3er año de reinado. Y ya que este uso se prolongó durante machismos años más, dicho kiosko conservó en gran medida cada una de sus majestuosas instalaciones que van naturalmente desde una amplia cubierta anexada a unas 24 pilares, además del icónico barco de Userhat-Amón, el cual figuraba como máxima representación de un traspaso fluvial fúnebre divino, sin contar con sus pasillos, rampas, muros y entrada principal, que se encuentran completamente tallados por parte de un valiosísimo diseño y decoración compuesto en su mayor parte de ilustraciones y grabados jeroglíficos clásicos, que se exhiben con marcada exuberancia aún desde el mismísimo Templo de Amón localizado en todo el frente de esta sagrada obra sub-escultural antigua.

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3. Templo de Osiris y Opet

Edificado inicialmente como una pequeña capilla de adoración principal a la gloriosa deidad femenina de Opet, mientras transcurría el sucesivo mandato del reconocido rey egipcio Ptolomeo VIII,  y luego reestructurado como un gran templo de rito no solo a esta máxima representación de la maternidad Egipto , sino también a su recién procreado dios omnipotente de la fertilidad y de la resurrección llamado Osiris. En donde se dice que esta diosa dio a luz a este último justo en el interior del Templo de Karnak, y por consiguiente se pueden observar desde el mismo momento en el que fue creado el templo de ambas divinidades antiguas tanto dentro y fuera de sus espacios, abundantes relieves jeroglíficos y otras interesantes ilustraciones que representan además la estrecha relación producida por Osiris, junto al dios Amón-Ra creador del universo, faraones y los mismos dioses en sí en cada parte de las paredes de dicho templo. El cual además de conformarse con las típicas instalaciones estructurales en su interior, que incluyen tanto  las salas, el cobertizo, las criptas, los capiteles, los pasillos, las bases columnares, el vestíbulo y pilón, y hasta los pasillos, cornizas y otros espacios más. Posee un llamativo techado exterior y entrada principal de gran tamaño que simboliza al afamado rey Euergetes II, teniendo una respetada interacción con estas y otras divinidades egipcias como Horus, Hathor e Isis, justo en toda la parte más destacable y grande del complejo en general, y aproximado también a muy poca distancia del borde occidental del ostentoso santuario de  Khonsu en la preponderante región de Ipet-Isut.

2. El obelisco de Hatshepsut

Reconocido en la actualidad y desde el momento de su creación en el Siglo XV a. C., y durante el imponente reinado de la quinta faraona y viuda de la 18va dinastía egipcia llamada Hatshepsut, como el segundo de los templos más grande y mayor esplendor en toda la nación. Ya que esta misma reina se encontraba frecuentemente con el anhelo de demostrar su gran poder , representación y fuerza a través de este y otras estructuras antiguas de elevadas dimensiones y complejidad arquitectónica, de las que más sorprenden haberse encontrado aún en píe, a solo uno de los cuatro gigantescos obeliscos creados en a base de la espectacular piedra de granito rosa, en honor y homenaje a la misma gobernante femenina. En el cual este último obelisco puede observarse a lo lejos del exótico Templo Amón-Ra perfectamente erigido desde aproximadamente 30 metros de alto con más de 330 toneladas de espesor, también cercano a otro gran obelisco derrumbado situado a poca distancia de dicho santuario antes mencionado. En donde se puede notar cómo es que esta sabia estratega y mística mandataria real quería por medio de este y de su espectacular templo superar por mucho al de Mentuhotep II, localizado en Deir el-Bahari, dejando como resultado una profunda huella en la historia de Egipto desde este mismo entonces, gracias a la activa participación de su mano derecha y fiel servidor Senenmut, quien se encargaba de proyectar estas súper construcciones arcaicas cuando y como esta lo deseara.

1.Templo de Karnak

No podríamos dejar atrás a este enorme complejo religioso dotado de numerosos templos, capillas, templos poligonales, y otras estructuras y monumentos cariados que dan forma a este extensa inmediación histórica y que popularmente se conocen como recintos de veneración y culto a los dioses Amón-Ra, Jonsu, Mut, Ptah, Montu, y Opet. Siendo estos tres primeros la principal triada mitológica a la que mayormente se le rendía adoración, y en donde  se puede vislumbrar hasta el sol de hoy cómo este amplio establecimiento religioso y cultural antiguo abarca una inmensa extensión de unas 100 hectáreas en su totalidad. Logrando ser reedificado más adelante pero aún no acabado, por sucesivos faraones egipcios de los que según cuentan fueron más de 30 entre todos ellos, mientras acontecía la XI Dinastía egipcia desde los años 2200-360 a.C aproximadamente. Pudiéndose demostrar que estas constantes remodelaciones fueron dadas entre el Imperio Nuevo y Medio hasta inclusive la asombrosa época ptolemaica, para luego ser abandonado el lugar después de siglos más adelante y presentarse ante todos hasta este entonces como uno de los primeras reliquias de incalculable belleza, tamaño, y valor arqueológico que mejor conserva sus espacios desde hace milenios de años atrás en Egipto.

➨ El templo de las luces

Uno de los aspectos que más me gusta de este templo es que en él se desarrolla uno de los mejores espectáculos de luz y sonido de todo Egipto. Por eso, cuando vas avanzando por éste, se te irá narrando una historia, al mismo tiempo que se ilumina partes del camino que transitas.

Como es un trayecto largo, hay mucha historia por contar, por ello se recomienda tomar este tour en el idioma que entiendas, ya sea inglés o español. Hay tours en español los lunes y viernes a las 22:30.

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¿Qué hacer en Karnak, Egipto?

Estamos ante al que fue durante siglos el centro religioso más importante de todo Egipto, por lo que dedícate a conocerlo a fondo con las mayores ganas posibles. Entonces qué hacer en Karnak, Egipto, simple, conocer el complejo de templos de Karnak que está compuesto por: el recinto de Amón, el recinto de Montu, el recinto de Mut, el templo de Jonsu, el templo de Opet y el templo de Ptah.

Te los explicaré más de ellos a continuación, porque hay mucho de lo que hablar:

✅ Gran templo de Amón

Como dato curioso, deberías saber que en el Antiguo Egipto, la construcción de los templos comenzaba en el centro y se terminaba de construir las entradas. La estructura del templo estaba compuesta por el patio interior, el segundo pilono, el tercer pilono, el cuarto y quinto pilono, el sexto pilono, el séptimo y octavo pilono, noveno pilono, decimo pilono, el lago y la sala hipóstila.

Destacan también el lago sagrado y cerca del noroeste hay una estatua de un escarabajo que fue mandado a construir por Amenhotep III. Y la sala hipóstila que es un recinto impresionante, que da una apariencia de bosque de piedra.

✅ Recinto de Montu

Fue hecho bajo las órdenes del faraón Amenhotep III y es el más pequeño de los recintos. Allí podrás apreciar el templo de Montu, el principal y dos templos más que están hechos en honra a Maat y a Hapre.

✅ Recinto de Mut

✅ Recinto de Ptah

Está ubicado al lado del norte y fue reconstruido por Tutmosis III. Resaltan cinco puertas decoradas con los cartuchos de Ptolomeo VII, Ptolomeo XIII, Ptolomeo III Evérgetes y dos de ellas con el de Shabaka. Además el mismo se encuentra decorado con escenas de vida de Tutmosis III y Seti I.

✅ Recinto de Jonsu

✅ Recinto de Opet

Opet está en medio del templo de Jonsu y la muralla del recinto en el lado suroeste. Lo más importante de este es bajo santuario, porque hay una representación de la diosa con cuerpo de hipopótamo y cabeza humana.

➨ Turismo en Karnak

Hacer turismo en Karnak es una excelente idea, sobre todo si eres un apasionado del Antiguo Egipto. Por ello, para conocer todo lo que alberga este sitio, debes tomarte tu tiempo y disfrutarlo al máximo.

Al ser un sitio turístico de tanta relevancia podrás encontrar cientos de excursiones sobre estas ruinas. Para disfrutar la experiencia al máximo trata de que las mismas sean en un idioma que puedas entender, porque algunas explicaciones son bastante largas en general. Hay tours en inglés y español.

También si te preocupa el traslado, esto no es un inconveniente porque al ser un destino turístico tan desarrollado, se puede acceder con facilidad esta ubicación.

Te recomiendo estas 3 Actividades inolvidables

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➨ Tiempo y temperatura en Karnak

El clima en Karnak es tomado en cuenta generalmente como uno árido, en donde llama la atención notar que su temperatura media más alta se encuentra entre los 41 ºC durante los meses de verano (julio), mientras que la misma puede llegar a descender  en hasta 22°C  justo entre los meses de invierno (enero), y ser muy calurosa en todo el transcurso del día y luego considerablemente fría en las sucesivas horas de la noche. Algo común debido a la cercanía de esta gran ciudad hacia el desierto.  También hay que destacar que aquí existen reducidas probabilidades de precipitación lluviosa de 8 mm, con una mínima humedad de hasta un 48% en cualquier momento de los 365 días del año. En donde podemos observar que indudablemente la temporada más apta para visitar a esta sin igual región sería justo entre los meses que van de desde enero hasta mayo; y luego los sucesivos que van desde septiembre a diciembre finalmente.

Esto quiere decir que viajar durante  esta época, ayuda a que como ocurre con cualquier temporada baja, los precios de alojamiento y transporte sean mucho más económicos. Mientras que las visitas vacacionales realizadas entre la consecuente temporada  alta, son aprovechadas a un mayor nivel para hacer los largos recorridos en toda esta vasta extensión. En donde naturalmente habrá mayor demanda de turistas en los meses de invierno, en el cual se pueda dar pie al máximo del goce de  los precios más bajos, siempre y cuando tengas resistencia al calor o tomes las medidas necesarias para que tu piel no se exponga  a un elevado nivel de los poderosos rayos del sol, y puedas disfrutar con todo gusto de todo lo que esta popular localidad tiene preparado para ti.

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• Temple of Karnak

The Temple of Karnak is the most imposing of all those preserved in Egypt from the years of the Ancient Empire.

More than 30 pharaohs intervened in different parts and moments of its construction, between 2200 and 360 B.C., although the most prominent were Hatshepsut, Seti I, Ramses II and Ramses III.

The entire complex covers some 100 hectares, an area larger than many of the most important ancient cities. In its interior, the great temple of Amun stands out, which was the main reason for which the construction began, but as the pharaohs passed, other smaller temples continued to be built.

Of all the architectural jewels that can be seen in the Temple of Karnak, surely the most outstanding and impressive is the hypostyle hall, so called because it is a space supported by columns. It has more than 5,000 square meters and a total of 134 columns, of which twelve are the central and widest, designed to support what was the roof (now destroyed) and reaching a height of 23 meters.

As a result of all these hundreds of years of construction, changes, additions and touch-ups inside the Temple of Karnak, archaeologists and researchers have been able to catalogue more than 200 different structures, making it one of the most complex and richest areas still under investigation. and, of course, millions of annual tourist visits.

Its enormous 12-meter high wall was built in the form of waves in a style different from the rest of the temple and its horizontal courses of adobe. In this way, the architect sought to symbolize the waters of the Nun, the chaotic primordial ocean according to the beliefs of the Egyptian pharaohs . By placing it in the wall, he left the chaos outside the sacred area, where all should be peace and harmony for the rest of the god Amun.

In addition, there are two other deities that are represented in different statues, minor temples and columns and that together with Amun, form the main triad of divinities of Thebes: Mut and Jonsu.

The Temple of Karnak houses in its interior the following enclosures:

• Temple of Amun-Ra.
• Temple of Montu.
• Temple of Mut.
• Temple of Jonsu.
• Temple of Opet.
• Temple of Ptah.
• Sacred lake.
• Temples, chapels, storerooms and smaller rooms, built inside the walls and surrounding the main enclosure.

The temple of Amun-Ra stands out for being located on a perpendicular axis to the river, on its main part, which demonstrates the fundamental importance that the Nile had for the ancient Egyptians. In fact, there was a wharf that was reached by two ramps that connected the river channel with the first pylon through the Avenue of the Sphinxes. In that first pylon, there are still four holes on each side that were used to fit cedar wood masts covered with copper that held the banners during the holidays.

The first news in Europe of the existence of the Temple of Karnak comes from an anonymous Venetian traveler, who in 1589 recounts a trip to an unnamed enclosure but that by the characteristics mentioned, there is no doubt that it is this place. The original of this text is preserved in the Biblioteca Nazionale Centrale di Firenze and is the first known European mention since Herodotus and the ancient Greek and Roman writers spoke of the city of Thebes, but without specific reference to this temple.

From that specific year of the Middle Ages to the present day, the Temple of Karnak continues to captivate millions of people who come to see firsthand one of the great architectural wonders of the Pharaohs’ years. And even today, excavations continue to be carried out and remains of this unique complex continue to be discovered, which continues to surprise us.

How to get to the Temple of Karnak

It is located 3 km north of the Temple of Luxor , connected to it through the Avenue of the Sphinxes. Therefore, to go to the Temple of Karnak you have to get to the city of Luxor, by direct flight or train from different cities in Egypt: Alexandria , Cairo , Hurghada . In case you cruise the Nile from south to north, you will reach Luxor by boat from Aswan.

The schedule to enter the Temple of Karnak is from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm for normal visits, both free and guided. Afterwards, the light and sound shows begin, which consist of entering the temple at night and, as a voice narrates the history of the site, different parts are illuminated. There are sessions in Spanish on Mondays and Fridays at 10:30 pm and in English every day.

Prices of the visit to the Temple of Karnak

The normal entrance fee to the Temple of Karnak is 120 EGP for adults and 60 EGP for students. The sound and light show costs 100 EGP. All these prices are contemplated without the guide service, whose cost will depend on the agency or operator you hire. You also have to buy a ticket to take photos inside the temple, which costs 20 EGP.

Photos of the Temple of Karnak

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Templo de Karnak en Egipto

Luxor es una ciudad muy importante en Egipto, puede que no sea la capital, sin embargo, puedes encontrar muchos lugares interesantes que visitar, así como templos de gran importancia, auge y magnitud, ya que era la antigua Tebas. Tebas era una ciudad antigua egipcia que se ubicaba a lo largo del Nilo, y fue una de las principales del alto Egipto, así mismo, durante el imperio medio y nuevo, fue la capital de Egipto. Por esta razón fue un centro de culto muy importante en donde se encuentran los templos más importantes de todo el país, pero el día de hoy hablaremos de uno de los más grandes de ellos, el majestuoso y enigmático Templo de Karnak.

Sobre el Templo de Karnak y Su Historia Antigua

Luxor es una ciudad muy importante en Egipto, puede que no sea la capital, sin embargo, puedes encontrar muchos lugares interesantes que visitar, así como templos de gran importancia, auge y magnitud, ya que era la antigua Tebas.

Tebas era una ciudad antigua egipcia que se ubicaba a lo largo del Nilo, y fue una de las principales del alto Egipto, así mismo, durante el imperio medio y nuevo, fue la capital de Egipto.

Por esta razón fue un centro de culto muy importante en donde se encuentran los templos más importantes de todo el país, pero el día de hoy hablaremos de uno de los más grandes de ellos, el majestuoso y enigmático Templo de Karnak.

Como ya he mencionado, el Templo de Karnak es el templo más grande de Egipto, y tiene dos mil cuatrocientos metros de perímetro, es tan grande que en la actualidad se siguen encontrando tesoros arqueológicos.

Este templo no fue construido por un solo faraón, ya que por su gran tamaño se construyó entre los años 2200 y 360 a. C., mencionando a algunos de los faraones que contribuyeron en su construcción, te voy a mencionar a algunos de los más importantes:

• La reina Hatshepsut
• Ramsés II
• Ramsés III

Uno de los datos curiosos que a mi me fascinan es el nombre con el que se le llamaba en el antiguo Egipto, el cual es, Ipet Sut, que significa el lugar más venerado.

Este hermoso y grandioso templo estaba dedicado al culto del dios Amón, que es el dios de la creación, por lo tanto, fue el centro religioso más influyente en todo Egipto pero como fue construido durante muchos años, y en diferentes dinastías, se crearon salas para venerar a más dioses, así que Karnak Egipto tiene un complejo de templos importantes que son:

• El recinto de Amón-Ra
• El recinto de Montu
• El recinto de Mut
• El recinto de Jonsu
• El templo de Opet
• El templo de Ptah

Así como otros pequeños recintos y múltiples estancias en donde comúnmente estaban los faraones y los sacerdotes más importantes del imperio rindiendo tributo.

La enterada del templo

La entrada del templo tiene una peculiaridad bastante espectacular, ya que frente a la entrada podrás ver un camino, ese camino te lleva al otro lado de la ciudad en donde podrás ver cuarenta esfinges con cabeza de carnero. A esto se le llama la avenida de las esfinges que conecta el templo de Karnak con el templo de Luxor, llegando hasta el Río Nilo. Esta avenida tiene aproximadamente tres kilómetros de longitud.

Al momento de la entrada al templo puedes ver dos torres en forma de trapezoide, eso es en la fachada principal, y a eso se le conoce como el primer pilón. Curiosamente su entrada es de las construcciones más nuevas, y caminar hacia adentro del templo es caminar hacia el pasado, lo cual te da una experiencia inolvidable. Los pilares en esos momentos presentaban la salida del sol y el cierre del otro mundo, lo que aporta seguridad a los dioses.

Uno de los lugares del templo y más maravillosos es el vestíbulo del templo, ya que tiene una columna en forma de papiro abierto, en donde encontrarás también el dios Amón y una estatua de Ramsés II con su hija. También podremos ver justo enfrente del vestíbulo la sala hipóstila, la cual es una de las salas más singulares del lugar, con veintitrés metros de altura, y está sostenida por ciento treinta y cuatro enormes columnas, formando un enorme pasillo. La base de las columnas tiene forma de tambor. No olvides tomar tu foto, ya que al encontrarte en medio de este magnífico escenario debe ser captado. Una memoria más para esta aventura llamada vida.

Ahora hablemos del templo de Amón-Ra. Está dividido en dos partes, cada parte se fue construyendo por diferentes faraones, por lo que podrás ver una parte antigua y una más novedosa. En la antigüedad podían entrar embarcaciones de las festividades, por lo que podemos ver que la construcción misma tiene cuatro pequeñas ventanas en donde salían cuatro argollas para sujetar los mástiles.

Otra de las obras significativas de este gran templo es la capilla escondida, la cual tiene tres puertas y fue una obra del faraón Seti I, en donde guardaba las barcas sagradas del dios Amón, su esposa Mut y su hijo Jonsu, los cuales eran la triada tebana. Es curioso ver cómo la construcción tenía muchas consideraciones para las embarcaciones, pero en el Antiguo Egipto, el Nilo subía e inundaba los campos de cultivo, por lo que se celebraban fiestas religiosas en las cuales transportaban dichas barcas con las estatuas de los dioses.

Después de ver estas dos magníficas vistas del centro, encontramos un par de obeliscos. Los obeliscos representan los rayos del dios Sol, Ra.

El templo también cuenta con un lago y un escarabajo de la buena suerte, el cual no puedes dejar de visitar. El lago era artificial y servía para la purificación de los sacerdotes antes de los rituales de culto al dios Amón, representando también la creación del mundo. Después encontramos al escarabajo, el cual, al verlo, tendrás que dar una vuelta alrededor de esta escultura ya que es sagrada, está construido de granito rosa sobre un pedestal, y como te mencionaba está justo enfrente del lago. Al dar la vuelta, todos tus deseos se harán realidad.

Priceos y Horarios

Para llegar a este hermoso complejo, es necesario llegar a Luxor, y comprar tus entradas con anticipación, al ser un lugar tan grande, te recomiendo contratar el servicio de una empresa de turismo, o un guía turístico profesional, ya que te apoyarán y ayudarán a aprovechar tu tiempo al máximo, visitando las zonas más importantes, así como dándote una explicación extraordinaria. Recuerda llevar zapatos cómodos ya que el camino es largo y necesitarás energía y fuerza para terminar de recorrer el templo.

Este templo está abierto de 6 am a 6 pm, y después empiezan los espectáculos de luz y sonido. El precio para adultos extranjeros es 220 EGP/ estudiante 110 EGP.

Show de luz y sonido en Karnak 300 EGP.

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10 Thrilling Experiences On A Viking Nile River Cruise

W hen Viking launched its first purpose-built Nile River cruise ship in August 2022, voyages through the heart of Egypt immediately became more accessible, luxurious, and exciting. 

Viking also offers Viking Aton , which debuted in August 2023, so even more cruisers have a chance to take a voyage in style in this exotic destination.

Viking Osiris and Viking Aton both carry up to 82 passengers on five spacious decks and the ships are outfitted with roomy staterooms, lounges, restaurants, bright public areas, and a beautiful open sun deck.

While these comfortable ships certainly set the standard for Nile River cruising, that’s only part of what makes a Viking river cruise in Egypt such a wonderful experience. We sailed on one of the first voyages on Viking Osiris and found a host of great activities that travelers will love.

1. The Great Pyramid 

Viking’s Nile River cruise program starts with three nights at a luxury hotel in Cairo. You begin your immersive journey in Egypt’s capital, where you have a comfortable place to eat and relax — and even enjoy the pool, spa, restaurants, and fitness center — after your long flight to Egypt. 

While here, you meet your Viking Egyptologists, who will take you to one of the top highlights of your trip, the Great Pyramid Complex of Giza. This is the world-renowned attraction of three massive pyramids, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu.

These three structures, built more than 4,500 years ago, make an amazing spectacle in the hot desert. The symmetry and size offer a testament to the architectural mastery of ancient Egyptians who built these fantastic tombs for the pharaohs. You can even venture inside the Great Pyramid, creeping along a tight and hot passageway to the King’s Chamber. 

Pro Tip: Our guide for the journey on Viking Osiris warned us that there would be a lot of high-pressure hawkers selling trinkets and souvenir items at the Great Pyramid Complex (as well as at several sites and temples during our voyage). Her best tip was that we simply do not engage with them in any way if we were not interested in buying anything at that time.

2. The Great Sphinx On Camelback

Viking covers the fee for a short camel ride and photo opportunity during your visit to the Great Pyramid site. It’s thrilling to nestle atop of one of these fascinating animals and feel it lift you high above the Sahara to saunter along the sand for about 15 minutes. Your guides will happily snap an iconic photo of you astride your camel with the stunning pyramids in the background. 

Adjacent to the pyramids is the Great Sphinx. Your day in Giza continues with a visit to this famed attraction, too. 

Pro Tip: Be ready with your camera or cell phone to hand it over to your camel guide so that he can take a few pictures for you during your ride.

3. Valley Of The Kings

The Viking Osiris Nile River cruise itinerary visits Luxor for some of the most-anticipated days of adventure. Viking offers a premium shore excursion that is that rare one-of-a-kind experience.  

The early-morning balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings (and the Valley of the Queens) allows you to see the sun rise and illuminate the vast mountain range and valley that was the final resting place for Egypt’s great pharaohs, including Rameses II and King Tut. 

Cruisers rise around 3:30 a.m. and head across the river to the West Bank to watch the balloons inflate and take shape before they rise majestically into the sky. Seeing the colorful balloons floating all around while you ride in your basket with a group of new friends as the golden sun emerges on the horizon makes for a jaw-dropping spectacle. 

Pro Tip: Dress in layers for this activity and bring a water bottle. It’s cool in the morning before the sun rises in the desert, but it quickly heats up throughout your ride. You can peel off layers as needed.

4. King Tut’s Famous Burial Site  

While in Luxor, you also will be able to visit King Tut’s tomb in the Valley of the Kings. Viking takes cruisers over for a full tour of the impressive burial sites, with the tombs carved deep inside the mountains.  

You wander down long passages to visit chambers, with every wall ornately decorated with colorful murals. The art depicted the daily life and religious doctrine of ancient Egyptians.  

King Tutankhamun’s mummy is on display within the tomb, and you can also visit the crypts of some of the most notable pharaohs of ancient Egypt. These include Ramses I, Ramses III, Seti II and Merenptah. 

5. The Grand Temples Of Karnak And Luxor 

These two historic sites are nearby, and cruisers get to visit them both during Viking’s time in Luxor.  

The Luxor and Karnak Temple complexes are filled with a mix of well-preserved and decaying chapels, massive pylons and columns, and other structures on which construction began more than 4,000 years ago. These sprawling sites are filled with carvings, statues, and engravings that depict stories and cultural aspects of society at the time. 

Karnak Temple is one of the largest in the world and the second-most visited tourist site in Egypt, ranking behind the Great Pyramid Complex. 

Pro Tip: Hats, scarves, water, and good walking shoes are essential for visiting these sites and all temple sites in Egypt. 

6. Abu Simbel And Other Incredible Temples 

While the temples of Karnak and Luxor are notorious as two of Egypt’s most famous temples, cruisers on a Viking Nile River voyage will get to see many other spectacular temple sites along the journey. 

In Quena, a town right on the river, you’ll be amazed by the blue colors of the murals and art on the walls of the well-preserved Dendera Temple of Hathor. At Esna, you can explore the temple dedicated to the water god Khnum, who was worshiped as the guardian of the Nile’s headwaters. 

Edfu is fun to visit, especially because you can enjoy a ride to the Temple of Horus on a traditional horse-drawn caliche.  

When in Aswan, though, I highly recommend Viking’s premium excursion (added fee) that takes cruisers to Abu Simbel. The Temples of Abu Simbel are a marvel for their beauty and scale. Plus, the story of the rediscovery and a massive relocation project to preserve them is fascinating.  

Abu Simbel was built in the 13th century and honors Ramses II. Lost to the sands of time, it was uncovered in the early 19th century. This UNESCO World Heritage site was moved in 1968 to accommodate the construction of the Aswan Dam that controls the flow of the vital Nile River.  

Abu Simbel was moved more than 200 feet higher and 650 feet farther inland. 

It sits in its new place with a striking facade of four enormous statues of Ramses II guarding the entrance of the sandstone temples. 

7. The Nile River

The best thing about traveling right through the heart of Egypt on your Nile River cruise is that you get to see the landscape and scenery from a different perspective. As you sail from port to port, you also will be happy to call a luxury river boat such as Viking Osiris your home.  

The top Sun Deck offers plenty of comfy seating areas to take in the green banks of the river that are framed by the brown mountains in the distance. You also will be enticed to enjoy a sunset cocktail in the aft infinity pool as you cruise the exotic and historic waterway. We were charmed by the young children seen playing and swimming along the Nile’s banks, waving excitedly to greet us as we sailed past. 

8. The Egyptian Museum 

In Cairo, Viking includes a tour of the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities. This is where you can see tens of thousands of pieces from the times of the ancient pharaohs. These include magnificent sarcophaguses, statues, tools, jewelry, murals, writings, and the famed golden mask of King Tut. 

9. Bustling Markets 

Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Aswan, and Esna all offer opportunities to visit small and large souks (marketplaces), where you can shop for souvenirs, regional foods, spices, or other items of interest. Here, you’ll get to engage with very friendly people who rely heavily on tourist dollars for income.

Pro Tip: Don’t agree on the first price offered. Egyptians love to negotiate, and they welcome the chance to haggle a bit before you both agree to a fair price. 

10. Aswan Dam 

Viking spends two days in Aswan, and this is a chance to learn about the High Dam project and how it was built in the 1960s to provide stability to the fertile lands along the Nile. Before the dam, the region had problems with flood conditions ruining crops and leading to famine. The High Dam created the 300-mile-long Lake Nasser, which now offers irrigation and electricity. Cruisers can tour the dam and later ride a traditional wooden felucca boat on the Nile River.

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Best Places To Visit In Egypt - Top 16 Places To Visit In Egypt

Egypt is located in North Africa, the Middle East, and Southwest Asia, where many cultures and countries collide. Egypt developed a brilliant civilisation that is regarded as one of humanity's oldest.

Like other countries and territories, the best places to visit in Egypt are charming and diverse. You will have the time of your life exploring breathtaking natural scenery, delicious food, exciting entertainment venues, and typical Egyptian cultural beauty.

Egypt is now a popular tourist destination due to its secrets, legends, and wonderful world heritages. The best time to visit Egypt is from February to April and October to November, when you can see all of Egypt's landmarks, including all 16 Egyptian tourist attractions.

Is Egypt safe to travel to ? We can’t say the same for the whole country, but Cairo, the capital city, is a safe bet. In 1979, UNESCO designated Cairo as a World Cultural Heritage Site.

It is considered the country's heart, where economic, political, and cultural activities are concentrated. Weaving through the cities are numerous historical sites awaiting to be explored.

Like the old town of Cairo, it is home to the remains of ancient capital cities that date back to the 6th century. Here you can see the Islamic Cairo area - part of the historic centre of Cairo. This is also where you can find the Amr and ibn Tulun Mosques.

Visitors can also visit flea markets specialising in selling bronze jewellery, carpets, and other items. Anyone will feel as if they have entered a magical land when they arrive.

The Rifai and Sultan Hassan Mosque - an ideal destination for tourists who love ancient architecture.  Photo by Omar Elsharawy on Unsplash

Khan El Khalili Market, located in Cairo's old town, was established in the 14th century and is an exciting place for visitors to feel the local style, take photos, or shop for souvenirs.

This vibrant and magnificent market is regarded as the epitome of Cairo. Both tourists and locals flock here to experience mediaeval shopping with its narrow lanes and nooks and crannies. Many areas sell a variety of items such as spices, textiles, crystals, handicrafts, and jewellery.

From this city, if you want to start exploring Europe, we recommend taking a 3-hour flight to Rome, one of the most beautiful places in Italy . It is often a common entry point for first-time travellers on this continent.

Alexandria - located in the western Nile Delta, 225 kilometres (139 miles) from Cairo - runs along the Mediterranean coast for about 32 kilometres (about 20 miles).

It is Egypt's second-largest city and a major economic, political, cultural, and Egypt tourist centre. Most of the ancient city's buildings have been destroyed and sunk deep in the ocean over thousands of years. 

A Qaitbay Citadel in Alexandria in the city of Monastir - recommended place to pay a visit.  Photo by Farah Samy on Unsplash

Among them are the Pharos Lighthouse, Alexandria's symbol and one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. The city is also famous for the Library of Alexandria, the world's first library, which houses many valuable books about the Roman and Greek peoples.

The Royal Library of Alexandria, also known as the Great Library, was built in 2002. This latest work carries the meaning of a strong revival and the desire to resurrect the golden age of Alexandria's library.

With the main reading room of approximately 70,000 m 2 (~750,000 ft 2 ) and millions of books stored, this is currently one of the largest libraries in the world. This library has 11 floors, four of which are below sea level.

Aswan, which stretches along the Nile's banks, is a friendly town that offers a tranquil atmosphere. It was once the gateway to Africa for ancient Egypt. Aswan is a great place to explore the temples and other tourist attractions south of Upper Egypt and the region's distinct Nubian culture.

Coming to Aswan, you will find various fascinating temples like the temple of Isis, the goddess of love.  Photo by unai - stock.adobe.com

Elephantine in the Egyptian island of Aswan, teeming with palm tree plantations and colourful mud-brick villages, attract thousands of Egypt tourists daily.

Aswan's museum is located in a beautiful late-nineteenth-century mansion that is partially open to visitors and houses a collection of historic Elephantine objects from the Roman period.

You can take a boat to Kitchener Island - the so-called Aswan botanical garden - from the marina on the west side of Sioux island. The island was once the property of Lord Kitchener, who turned it into a lush green of exotic plants from Asia and Africa.

Luxor is one of Egypt's tourist attractions to visit for any first-timer. The entire city is an open-air museum filled with magnificent Egyptian palaces and ruins. It is divided into two sections, the West and the East Banks. Tourist attractions such as the Valley of the Kings, Luxor Temple, and the desert-strewn Karnak Temple can be found in both.

Karnak Hypostyle hall columns in Luxor Thebes Temple.  Photo by CALIN STAN on Unsplash

When you arrive in Luxor, one of the first temples you will see is Luxor Temple. This ancient Egyptian temple complex is conveniently located in the heart of Luxor and is easily accessible.

The ancient Egyptian ruin was built in 1400 BC when the area was still known as Thebes. Luxor Temple was the place where the ancient Egyptians crowned their kings.

To the west of Luxor, Colossi of Memnon temple is a collection of ancient and one-of-a-kind architectural works. Covering an area of more than 35 hectares, this was ancient Egypt's largest and most sacred temple. It is famous for its large stone statue depicting the portrait of Pharaoh Amenhotep III from 3,400 years ago.

You don’t necessarily have to visit the best places in Greece to swim in the ocean blue. Hurghada is Egypt’s tourist attraction and most popular seaside resort. It has beautiful beaches and excellent diving spots and is a good choice for those who want to enjoy a beach vacation.

Visitors are compelled to visit New Marina, a true Egyptian paradise. It’s where you can enjoy the beauty of the large ships in the harbour, a variety of delicious food and all of your favourite drinks at the bars with panoramic views. Furthermore, you can go shopping at luxury malls such as Senzo Mall or Al Nol.

  Luxurious romantic landscape with a beach resort at Hurghada.  Photo by Vegan Oasis on Unsplash

El Gouna Beach is a delightful oasis for everyone. Enjoy the sun while relaxing on the warm sand and participating in fun activities such as kayaking, kite flying, or swimming in the open sea with friendly dolphins.

Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm el-Sheikh is a famous place in Egypt on the southern tip of the Sinai peninsula. Coming here, you can soak up the sun, snorkel the incredible coral reefs, and enjoy the sea whenever you want. Its Red Sea coast is home to numerous resorts and a network of luxury hotels, restaurants, bars, and casinos.

Coming to Sharm El Sheikh, you won’t believe you are in Egypt.  Photo by OlegD - stock.adobe.com

The weather is hot and sunny all year, there is almost no rain, and the sea water is crystal clear and very warm. Everything is ideal for scuba diving and admiring the natural world. The red sea region has many must-see coral reefs and numerous unique and rare fish species. 

Al Mustafa Mosque is a stunning architectural mosque that is a popular Egypt tourist place that should be on your schedule even if you are not religious.

Completed in 2008, it has always drawn tourists with its majestic architecture, standing 72 metres (236 feet) tall and featuring a massive dome in the centre. The Mustafa Mosque's entire area has high historical and religious value and is a popular destination for many archaeologists.

Furthermore, Sharm's newly developed old town is home to many locals and will give you an authentic insight into Egyptian culture. Its Old Market is popular with bargain hunters, as goods are frequently cheaper here than in tourist hotspots like Naama Bay.

It's a shame if you visit Egypt but don't see the Pyramids. The Giza Pyramids in Egypt are the greatest man-made structures in history. The Great Pyramid of Giza was one of the ancient world's seven wonders (also known as the pyramid of Kheops). The stone blocks are carved, shaped, smoothed, and perfectly stacked to a height of 146.5m (418 feet).

The world-renowned pyramids at Gizeh, Egypt.  Photo by Ruben Hanssen on Unsplash

The most important ones here are Khufu (Great Pyramid or Cheops), Khafre, and Menkaure, which were built over three pharaoh reigns between 2560 and 2450 BC. It is located on the top of the Giza plateau. These are thought to be the world's first stone skyscrapers and became one of the best places to visit in Egypt.

Right there is also the location of the Red Pyramid. It is made entirely of red sandstone and stands 104 metres (341 feet) tall. This is the first success of mankind when building a pyramid with a smooth surface.

Egypt is best visited during the winter months of October to March. More specifically, the best time to visit the Pyramids of Giza is between 10 a.m. and noon, when there are fewer tourists and less heat.

Not far from Giza, visitors can experience visiting the Coptic Museum - an art museum that houses Coptic artworks from the earliest days of Christianity. Many artefacts date from the Roman Empire, when Christianity was Egypt's dominant religion.

Dahab, located 80 kilometres (50 miles) north of Sharm el-Sheikh, is a popular place to visit in Egypt . The site is known for its still unspoiled scenery, massive mountains, and its unrivalled blue beaches, which are ideal for scuba divers.

Once a remote seaside village, Dahab evolved into a hippie haven in the 1980s and is now an attractive tourist destination. The beach town’s location between the Red Sea and the Sinai desert makes it ideal for world-class windsurfing, scuba diving, rock climbing, and Bedouin desert climbing.

The famous Blue Hole in Egypt's Red Sea is a free diver's paradise.  Photo by Raimond Klavins on Unsplash

The Red Sea is also well-known for its excellent swimming and diving conditions. Walking, diving, and admiring the fantastic corals and marine life are thus activities to consider.

It’s a shame not to partake in scuba diving in crystal clear, turquoise waters. Bedouin Divers Dahab is one of the best diving clubs you could go for in Dahab. Many people highly praise the instructors’ professionalism, as well as their warm and friendly services.

The Nile River is the world's longest river, stretching 6,650 kilometres (more than 4,000 miles) and emptying into the Mediterranean Sea. It flows through 11 countries in North Africa, including Tanzania, Rwanda, South Sudan, etc. The Nile River is not only the country's primary source of water from ancient times to the present but also the best place to visit in Egypt.

The Nile was known as the river of life as it was the source of water, food, trade, and transportation for ancient Egyptians.  Photo by Keith on Flickr

When visiting Egypt, you should take advantage of a traditional felucca sailing along the Nile, especially in the afternoon when the sun sets on the water.

Travelling to Egypt's Nile River is an exciting experience. You will feel many emotions when viewing the wild and peaceful beauty and the beauty of the scenery on both sides of the river. Visitors are moved to owe to the greatness of dozens of architectural works beyond your imagination.

The Sahara Desert

Coming to Egypt, the Sahara Desert is an intriguing destination. It covers almost entirely North Africa, spanning 12 countries: Chad, Egypt, Libya, Mali, Morocco, etc. Even today, the Sahara Desert is expanding and is still one of the best places to visit in Africa .

This famous place in Egypt offers a variety of fascinating and impressive activities. You can ride camels in the sand desert, experience nomadic life, or watch and photograph the sunset in the desert.

Golden dunes stretching as far as the eye can see are what draw people to the mystical Sahara Desert.  Photo by Svitlana Belinska - stock.adobe.com

Siwa Oasis is another option. People often think of Egypt when they think of great pyramids and legends of mysterious pharaohs. Still, perhaps only a few people are aware of a paradise right in the heart of the Sahara desert - Siwa oasis.

The Siwa Oasis has everything you could want in a beautiful Egyptian desert destination: thick palm trees centred around freshwater springs and salt lakes; rugged massif, and massive dunes. The ruins of Shali and Aghurmi, labyrinthine towns that once protected the Siwans, are equally impressive.

If you love history and ancient Egyptian civilisation, you've probably heard of Abu Simbel. The ancient temple complex on the banks of the Nile River dates back to the 13th century. The Temple of Abu Simbel is situated on a steep cliff 280 m (918 feet) south of the Nile's first waterfall.

The attraction is a one-of-a-kind stone temple architecture system craved out in the 13th century BC. the historic site was built by Pharaoh Ramesses the Great himself as a permanent monument for himself and Queen Nefertari. 

A must-visit is the Temple of Abu Simbel in southern Egypt.  Photo by AssuieActive on Unsplash

It is widely regarded as the largest and most beautiful of Ramesses II's temples, as well as one of the most beautiful Egypt tourist places. The temple is part of a complex of seven beautiful stone temples designated as world cultural heritage by UNESCO in the mid-1960s. It is truly the pride of the Egyptian people.

Bahariya and Farafra

Bahariya and Farafra is a small enclave in the western desert - Sahara, accounting for less than 1% of Egypt's total land area. However, it is home to the country's rarest landscapes and geological systems. Thus, it is an ideal destination for those looking for dinosaur fossils and the remains of ancient creatures.

In Egypt, December and January are typically the coldest months. The best times to visit this part of Egypt are sunrise and sunset. The sun illuminates the formations in orange and pink during this time, creating a warm yet magical atmosphere.

When it comes to Bahariya and Farafra, perhaps the most appealing Egypt tourist attraction in this land is the white desert. Visitors will be stunned by the majestic scenery of creamy white rocks eroded by sandstorms over centuries sprouting up on the vast sand. It is like a contemporary open-air museum.

Explore the white desert near the Baharia Oasis in Egypt.  Photo by Abdelrahman Ismail on Unsplash

People can also visit a beautiful oasis covered in vast trees and unique hot springs that always maintain temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius. Both locals and visitors claim that it has healing powers and can help them relax after a long day.

The moonlit nights, when the sparkling white chalk-covered rocks reflect the brilliant moonlight, are the best time to admire this mysterious depression, highlighting the romantic beauty that captivates visitors.

Mount Sinai

Hiking in Mount Sinai is one of Dahab's most popular activities. This famous place in Egypt, known as the Mountain of God in the Bible, is thought to bring good luck and hope. Tourists can walk and trek, watch the sunrise, and breathe fresh air.

This area is extremely safe; the locals are amiable and welcoming, and the weather is generally excellent, no matter when you visit. The site is densely packed with cafes, shops, restaurants, and nightclubs, some of which stay open until sunrise. 

Impressive barren view of Mount Sinai.  Photo by boygostockphoto - stock.adobe.com

Hiking up the holy mountain is popular, with many visitors opting to spend the night or stay at a motel to catch the biblical sunrise. The distance between this sacred destination and Cairo is about 440 km (273 miles).

Karnak Temple

The Temple of Karnak is located in the ancient city of Luxor and has the most extended construction history in Egypt, spanning more than 30 pharaohs and more than 1,000 years of construction and expansion.

With its complex architecture and possession of many giant stone statues, the Karnak Temple in Egypt is the most important temple in the complex of temples.

Ancient Ruins of Karnak Temple, Egypt - A Place You Should Explore.  Photo by 2H Media on Unsplash

Rows of ram-headed sphinxes greet you at the entrance to Karnak Temple, and within the temple is the Hypostyle Hall, a large corridor with over 130 massive columns arranged in 16 rows. The temple's walls are adorned with reliefs depicting Pharaohs using bows and arrows to destroy evil in vibrant colours.

This place is dedicated to the sun god Amun-Ra and is the largest temple complex in Egypt that has survived to this day. This is the most important and fascinating archaeological site that you should not miss when you visit Egypt.

The Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum is one of the world's largest museums, containing priceless treasures from ancient Egypt's history. The museum opened in 1902 and has become a repository for hundreds of artefacts from various periods, including antiques dating back 5,000 years.

Every year, millions of tourists visit Egypt to see the world's most extensive collection of pharaoh antiquities; this attraction is the best place to do that.

The museum has two floors: the ground floor is a chronological journey through Egypt's 5,000-year history with thousands of artefacts, while the upper floor houses exhibit such as Tutankhamun's tomb, idols, and life simulations.

Display and storage area for masks, mummies and relics of Tutankhamun, an Egyptian pharaoh.  Photo by Abdullah Elhariry on Unsplash

This museum also houses many mummies of the famous Pharaoh, most notably Tutankhamun. For thousands of years, his mummy has been kept in a cabinet with exquisite gold jewellery. A glittering golden coffin surrounded it, as did small vases used to store his organs. 

Above all, an entire section of the museum is devoted to the remains of his tomb. You will be impressed by the meticulous carvings on the golden tomb, which was entirely handcrafted tens of thousands of years ago. The luxury, wealth, and honour bestowed upon Tutankhamun by the locals are impressive.

Saint Catherine Monastery

The Monastery of Saint Catherine Egypt is regarded as one of the world's most impressive Egypt tourist destinations. UNESCO designated the Saint Catherine area as a World Heritage Site in 2002. Every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors come to see and explore this relic.

A close-up view of St. Catherine’s monastery on the Sinai Peninsula.  Photo by Stepanych - stock.adobe.com

Saint Catherine's Monastery has now been converted into a museum, housing many priceless works of art dating back to the sixth century, as well as Greek and Russian icons and Arabic mosaics. Many oil paintings on wax can be found on the monastery's west side.

The attraction is distinguished by its use of marble and numerous enamel paintings. The monastery is surrounded by massive statues that are both solid and sturdy. It stood the test of time; many people have been overwhelmed by the monastery's magnificence over the course of 14 centuries.

The monastery is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. According to UNESCO, it is the world's oldest Christian monastery. Visitors will enjoy the view from the top of the mountain, which overlooks the beautiful beach with palm huts built close to the shimmering water's edge.

Hopefully, the information about the 16 Best Places to Visit in Egypt provided by CabinZero in this article will assist you in planning your trip to discover. The best time to go to Egypt and explore everything this mysterious land has to offer is now.

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