About the Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings is a valley in Egypt where, for a period of nearly 500 years from the 16th to 11th century BC, rock-cut tombs were excavated for the pharaohs and powerful nobles of the New Kingdom. The valley stands on the west bank of the Nile, opposite Thebes (modern Luxor), within the heart of the Theban Necropolis.
The valley contains 63 known tombs, ranging in size from a simple pit to a complex tomb with over 120 chambers. The royal tombs are decorated with scenes from Egyptian mythology and give clues to the beliefs and funerary rituals of the period. Almost all of the tombs seem to have been opened and robbed in antiquity.
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Quick Facts
- Location: West Bank, Luxor, Egypt
- Period: 16th-11th century BCE (New Kingdom)
- Number of Tombs: 63 discovered so far
- Most Famous Tomb: KV62 (Tutankhamun)
- Discovery: Tutankhamun's tomb found intact in 1922
- UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site since 1979
- Temperature: Can reach 45°C (113°F) in summer
Visiting the Valley
The Valley of the Kings is open daily from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM (winter) or 6:00 PM (summer). The standard ticket allows access to three tombs (excluding Tutankhamun's), with additional tickets required for special tombs. Photography inside tombs is generally prohibited.
The best time to visit is early morning when temperatures are cooler. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and plenty of water are essential. The site involves walking on uneven terrain and climbing stairs in some tombs.
Most visitors combine the Valley with other West Bank sites like the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon. Guided tours are highly recommended to fully appreciate the historical significance and symbolism of the tomb decorations.