If you are in Egypt, you have to definitely make a visit to Luxor. Luxor is often called the world’s greatest open-air museum, once an ancient capital city. Luxor is a city on the east bank of the Nile River in southern Egypt. It’s on the site of ancient Thebes, the pharaohs’ capital at the height of their power, during the 16th–11th centuries B.C. Therefore, it is undoubtedly, one of the most important archaeological sites in Egypt.
At least two days here would be enough to explore ancient Egyptian history and the beauty of Luxor it has to offer. One day to explore the East bank side and another day to explore the West bank side.
What to see in West Bank
Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings, also known as the Valley of the Gates 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. With underground corridors and incredible ancient wall paintings, leading you the way toward the tombs of some of the greatest Egyptian pharaohs.
Each tomb is very different and unique in its different way. Nevertheless, the ticket access to the Valley of the Kings will allow you to visit only 2-3 tombs. Did you also know that the tomb of the famous Tutankhamun is also located here? In order to see his tomb, you will have to purchase an additional ticket. However, I have to say that the majority of his treasures and the tomb itself is already transferred to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.
Colossi of Memnon
The Colossi of Memnon are two massive stone statues of the Pharaoh Amenhotep III, who reigned in Egypt during the Eighteenth Dynasty of Egypt. These statues have survived for 3,400 years and were an acoustic wonder of the ancient world. After the natural catastrophe, there’s a tiny hole inside the statue and whenever the wind blows it sounds like the statue is singing.
Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, also known as the Djeser-Djeseru. The temple, set against a desert backdrop, is located near the Valley of the Kings. The temple, built from platforms and pillars, has impressive sloping steps, which take you up through the levels. Importantly, the building tells the story of one of the first female pharaohs. However, the original temple has been badly destroyed so what you see here today is just majority a replica.
Hot Air Balloon Ride over Luxor at Sunrise
If you would like a true experience of seeing all of the monuments and the beautiful city from up, you should book a hot air balloon ride during sunrise. Hot air balloon rides in Luxor have been one of the most magical ways to soak in the incredible architectural and historical wonders of this Nile-side city for decades.
What to see in East Bank
Karnak Temple
The Karnak Temple Complex, commonly known as Karnak, comprises a vast mix of decayed temples, chapels, pylons, and other buildings. It is the world’s second-largest religious complex, coming in closely behind Angor Wat in Cambodia. Hence why people consider it to be one of the most sacred sites in Egypt. It is truly a magical place wandering around those pillars. The central sector of the site, which takes up the largest amount of space, is dedicated to Amun-Ra, a male god associated with Thebes.
Luxor Temple
The temple was constructed approximately 1400 BCE. In the Egyptian language, it is known as “ipet resyt”, “the southern sanctuary”. In this temple, you will see so many religious influences. I do also recommend you visit the temple during sunset & evening times to see the temples from a different viewpoint. It is truly magical during the evening when the temple is lit up!
