Valley of the Kings Tomb Guide

the Valley of the Kings
the Valley of the Kings

Tucked into the rugged cliffs of the Theban Hills across the Nile from Luxor, the Valley of the Kings is where Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs built their eternal homes. Unlike the pyramid tombs of earlier dynasties, these underground chambers hold mysteries, magic, and some of the most stunning artwork of the ancient world.

This Valley of the Kings Tomb Guide is your key to understanding which tombs to visit, who lies within, and how to get the most out of your journey into the afterlife of kings.

Where Is the Valley of the Kings?

The Valley of the Kings is located on the west bank of the Nile in Luxor (ancient Thebes). Nestled between towering cliffs, it served as the royal necropolis for nearly 500 years, from the 16th to the 11th century BCE.

Why the Kings Chose This Valley

Pharaohs of the New Kingdom moved their tombs from towering pyramids to hidden valley tombs to:

  • Prevent grave robbing

  • Align with solar and underworld beliefs

  • Use the natural pyramid-shaped mountain (el-Qurn) as a sacred symbol

It was a spiritual and strategic choice.

How Many Tombs Are in the Valley?

As of today, archaeologists have identified more than 65 tombs, labeled KV1 to KV65. Not all are open to the public—only about 8–12 tombs are accessible at any given time, with rotating schedules to protect the artwork.

Top Tombs You Shouldn’t Miss

If you only have one visit, prioritize these masterpieces:

  • KV62 – Tutankhamun

  • KV17 – Seti I

  • KV9 – Ramses V & VI

  • KV14 – Tawosret & Setnakht

  • KV11 – Ramses III

Each offers something unique—whether it’s vibrant art, scale, or historical significance.

Tomb of Tutankhamun (KV62)

  • Discovered: 1922 by Howard Carter

  • Fame: Nearly intact with over 5,000 treasures

  • Tomb: Small but sacred

  • What’s inside: His mummy, sarcophagus, and original wall paintings

  • Requires a separate ticket—but worth it for history buffs

Tomb of Seti I (KV17)

  • The longest and deepest tomb (over 130 meters!)

  • Dazzling ceiling art and crisp hieroglyphs

  • Was closed for decades—now open with a premium ticket

This is arguably the most beautiful tomb ever built in Egypt.

Tomb of Ramses V & VI (KV9)

  • Shared tomb with dual pharaohs

  • Famous for the astronomical ceiling in the burial chamber

  • Depictions of the Book of Gates and Book of Caverns

  • Open with general entry ticket

It’s visually stunning and rich in cosmic mythology.

Tomb of Merenptah (KV8)

  • 13th son of Ramses II

  • One of the largest tombs in the valley

  • Contains multiple corridors, side chambers, and deep shafts

  • You’ll feel the grandeur of late Ramesside architecture

Tomb of Thutmose III (KV34)

  • One of the earliest tombs in the valley

  • Located high on a cliff—steep walk required

  • Walls feature stick-figure-style drawings and curved corridors

A fascinating glimpse into the evolution of tomb design.

Tomb of Horemheb (KV57)

  • Transitional ruler between 18th and 19th dynasties

  • Richly decorated with colorful reliefs and royal themes

  • Offers a mix of early and late New Kingdom styles

Often overlooked, but a favorite for serious Egyptophiles.

Other Notable Tombs

  • KV35 – Amenhotep II: Burial of multiple royals found in side chambers

  • KV6 – Ramses IX: Easily accessible with bright wall scenes

  • KV11 – Ramses III: Intricate detail, often uncrowded

How to Buy Tickets and What’s Included

🎟️ General Entry Ticket (around 260 EGP) includes 3 tombs of your choice from the open list.

🎟️ Additional Tickets:

  • Tutankhamun’s Tomb: ~300 EGP

  • Seti I or Ramses V/VI: Premium access (~1,000+ EGP)

  • Photography Ticket: Extra for using DSLR/cameras inside

Ask at the ticket booth for which tombs are open that day.

What to Expect Inside the Tombs

  • Warm and humid air

  • Narrow staircases and ramps

  • Some tombs go deep—watch your step

  • No flash photography (strictly enforced)

  • Tomb guards may offer extra info—for a small tip

Best Time of Day and Year to Visit

⏰ Early morning (8–9 AM) is best to beat the heat and crowds.
🗓️ October to April offers cooler temperatures and better comfort.

Avoid midday in summer—tomb interiors can feel like saunas.

Accessibility and Physical Requirements

Some tombs have ramps, but most involve stairs, uneven ground, and tight spaces. Visitors with mobility issues should opt for KV6 or KV9, which are more accessible.

Valley of the Queens vs. Valley of the Kings

  • Valley of the Queens: Smaller, quieter, includes Nefertari’s tomb (incredible, but premium ticket required)

  • Valley of the Kings: Grand, expansive, male pharaohs and royal figures

Both are worth seeing if time allows!

Etiquette and Tomb Preservation Tips

  • Don’t touch the walls or carvings

  • Avoid loud voices or music

  • Follow photography rules (some tombs ban photos entirely)

  • Don’t take “souvenirs”—even a rock is off-limits

Every action counts toward preserving this global treasure.

Final Thoughts: Why the Valley Is Egypt’s Most Majestic Necropolis

The Valley of the Kings isn’t just an ancient cemetery—it’s a living monument to ambition, art, and belief in the afterlife. Every tomb tells a story of a ruler, a religion, a civilization at its peak.

Walk its paths, descend into its silence, and feel the weight of thousands of years of royalty, reverence, and resilience.