Valley of the Kings: A Complete Visitor's Guide

The Valley of the Kings: Where Pharaohs Rested in Eternity

Set in a remote valley on Luxor's West Bank, the Valley of the Kings served as the royal burial ground for Egypt's most powerful pharaohs of the New Kingdom period (1539–1075 BC). This barren limestone valley contains 63 identified tombs and is one of the world's most extraordinary archaeological sites.

History of the Valley

For nearly 500 years, every pharaoh of the New Kingdom was buried here. The most famous discovery came in 1922 when Howard Carter uncovered the largely intact tomb of the boy-king Tutankhamun – the greatest archaeological find of the 20th century.

Must-See Tombs

• KV62 – Tutankhamun: The most famous tomb. The mummy of Tutankhamun still rests in his golden shrine.
• KV11 – Ramesses III: One of the most accessible and longest tombs, with vivid painted scenes including musicians playing harps.
• KV9 – Ramesses V and VI: Famous for its magnificent astronomical ceiling.

Practical Information

• Standard ticket covers 3 tombs. Tutankhamun requires an additional ticket.
• Best visited: Early morning, 8–10 AM, before both crowds and heat build up.
• Photography inside tombs is not permitted (rules vary by specific tomb).