Royal Viking Nile Cruise

Welcome to the magnificent MS Tamr Henna Nile Cruise, an exquisite adventure that travels between the historical cities of Luxor and Aswan. , an elite Egypt Nile cruise offers cabins of grand space and high standards in dining, as well as more stunning views of the Nile, which gives you the chance to visit some of Egypt's most glorious temples and monuments, including the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Abu Simbel. MS Tamr Henna pampers you with fantastic service, promises cultural experiences, and a very relaxed and memorable journey through the ancient treasures of Egypt.

Oberoi Philae Nile Cruise is an ultra-luxurious Nile cruise through Egypt, sailing between Luxor and Aswan, offering sumptuous accommodations and impeccable service while experiencing Egypt's magnificent temples and monuments, such as the Valley of the Kings and the Karnak Temple. With world-class amenities, panoramic views of the Nile River, and some of the monuments along its shores, the Oberoi Philae guarantees visitors an unforgettable experience through ancient Egypt as part of an Egypt nile cruise.

Welcome to the beautiful Nile, the longest river in the world! Around Egypt Tours will take you on an unforgettable journey on board the Semiramis II Nile Cruise. Sail between Aswan and Luxor on a Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor, enjoy the lively scenery while learning about the rich culture and history of Egypt, the land of civilization.

Whether you're booking a Luxor and Aswan Nile Cruise or planning a Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan, enjoy the exceptional amenities of our luxurious floating hotel, designed to make your holiday truly extraordinary. The Nile cruise Luxor Aswan aboard Semiramis II promises an experience filled with comfort, elegance, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Welcome aboard your home on the Nile—your ideal Egypt Nile cruise experience!

Around Egypt Tours has recently launched the Blue Shadow I Nile Cruise, which offers a unique blend of modern elegance and traditional magic. This cruise represents a five-star category, with 54 deluxe cabins and three suites, all internally designed in such a manner that the surrounding meets international deluxe hotel-level standards for total comfort and convenience for our guests.

Onboard the Blue Shadow I Nile Cruise Luxor Aswan, enjoy a variety of traditional dance and music performances, unwind in the exquisite spa, take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool, or relax on the spacious sun deck. The luxurious cabins provide a private sanctuary after a day of exploration on your Nile Cruise from Luxor to Aswan.

The cruise features exceptional dining experiences, offering both local and international cuisine in a stunning setting. Guests can also enjoy an extensive program of onboard entertainment, all while gaining easy access to the remarkable sights and captivating landscapes of the Nile and Upper Egypt, making it a perfect Luxor and Aswan Nile Cruise for every traveler.

Let Around Egypt Tours create a memorable journey aboard the Blue Shadow I Nile Cruise, where every detail is designed to provide an unforgettable Egypt Nile Cruise travel experience.

Those planning to travel to Egypt who wish to discover the treasures of the Nile will find the ultimate solution on the MS Moon Dance Nile Cruise. The 5-star modern deluxe Nile cruise provides both an escape for relaxation along with different recreational options available throughout the ship. You will discover your ideal accommodation from the 60 cabins in addition to the eight available suites.

Sailing between Luxor and Aswan Nile cruise offers MS Moon Dance Nile Cruise guests the unique possibility to explore ancient relics of the past and marvel at the sights found along the Nile river. The trip will offer the chance to visit Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, the High Dam, Philae Temple & Unfinished Obelisk, Kom Ombo and Edfu Temples while enjoying breathtaking Nile vistas from above.

Passengers aboard the MS Moon Dance Egypt Nile Cruise will discover multiple types of entertainment options throughout the boat. You may enjoy spa services followed by relaxing within the swimming pool area. The ship enables guests to use its gym while it also contains a library and gift shop to buy personal mementos.

The MS Moon Dance Nile Cruise provides the ideal journey to reveal past historic wonders of the Nile. The Egypt tours on this luxurious cruise guarantee you memorable times because it provides deluxe amenities together with friendly staff and multiple forms of entertainment for recreation.

Take a step into the Kahila Nile Cruise, where ancient meets modern. This excellent Luxor and Aswan Nile cruise invites you to navigate the very heart of the nation, with each amazing viewing available to unravel another episode in the ancient story of this land. Every walking moment of your journey shows you this wonder against the backdrop of a civilization that has been existing for over 5,000 years, from the splendid temples of Karnak and Luxor to the secretive tombs in the Valley of the Kings.

The Kahila Nile Cruise combines exploration of ancient culture with comfortable elegance through its luxurious facilities and first-class staff while showing the Nile's everlasting landscapes. This premium Egypt Nile cruise experience in Egypt provides you with an opportunity to create endless unforgettable memories through its combination of ancient sightseeing and dining along the boat deck while letting the world drift by.

The Nile's rhythms will lead you through a captivating visit of Upper Egypt while providing you remarkable luxury and ease on your Egypt tour.

When it comes to the legendary Nile River of Egypt, one can easily say that the traditional Dahabiya or the Luxor to Aswan Cruise are two of the most sought-after cruise options. Both essentially present fabulous ways to witness the ancient wonders of Egypt, but they have many divisions in terms of style, experience, and level of intimacy. Therefore, let us highlight the main differences so that you can decide what type of Nile cruise is suited for your travels!

What is a Dahabiya?

A Dahabiya cruise gives a traditional sailboat method in Egypt to provide a very intimate experience of traveling on the Nile. Occasionally with wind power and sometimes with engine power, these boats are smaller than a typical river cruise and can carry only 10-20 passengers, hence suitable for an intimate and calm experience. They are luxurious sailboats, ingeniously designed to afford the passenger comfort with pleasant rooms, a sun deck, and fine dining.

The whole philosophy of the Dahabiya experience is more relaxation and being in connection with the Nile. Because they are smaller, they can also dock at quiet, off-the-beaten-path locations, so the guests get to visit hidden temples and ancient sites not reachable by the large cruise. You are equally likely to find yourself slowly sailing, relishing the spectacular river views and Egyptian countryside.

What is a Luxor to Aswan Cruise?

the contrary, A Luxor to Aswan Cruise represents a more classical and widely accepted way of exploring the Nile. Bigger ships that accommodate a bigger number of passengers-widely ranging from 50 to 100-plus guests-offer fantastic facilities that may include swimming pools, spas, entertainment, and diverse restaurants. Their cruises generally follow an established itinerary stretching between Luxor and Aswan and include stops at grand places like these: Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Abu Simbel.

The Luxor to Aswan cruises provide a more social experience, quite ideal for travelers that want to access a wider range of facilities and services but at the same time meet and interact with other passengers. Although a very high degree of comfort and luxury is afforded by these, their large size limits access to the more secluded spots on the Nile in which the Dahabiya boats have a free hand.

 Differences Between Dahabiya and Luxor to Aswan Cruises

Size and Intimacy

Dahabiya: The smaller crimes in the world, giving an intimate and romantic cruise. For couples, honeymooners, and small groups in search of a quieter, more tranquil cruise.

Luxor to Aswan Cruise: Bigger ships are in a more social environment with an array of activities and amenities.

Route and Stops

Dahabiya: Deliberate slow pace, allowing for stops at hidden sites, more remote locations, and buildings that bigger ships cannot access.

Luxor to Aswan Cruise: Will take the more traveled path, stopping at Egypt's most famous and iconic ancient sites like Luxor Temple, Karnak, and Abu Simbel.

Facilities and Amenities

Dahabiya: It has more than decent amenities, such as comfortable cabins, a sun deck, and fine dining. The focus is more on the peacefulness of the Nile.

Luxor to Aswan Cruise: It has all kinds of amenities, including pools, spas, gyms, entertainment, and dining options—a resort-like experience.

Atmosphere

Dahabiya: Peaceful, relaxed, and personal—not for those who like to, well, immerse themselves in the tranquility of the Nile.

Luxor to Aswan Cruise: Full of colorful energy, happening, with a lot of socializing in a more structured agenda.

Which Cruise Is Right for You?

Choose a Dahabiya if:

You want something a little more private and exclusive.
You like smaller, intimate crafts with that laid-back atmosphere.
You want to cruise the Nile through quieter spots less visited by tourists.
You want to take it slow, sailing with beautiful views and downtime for occasions.

Choose a Luxor to Aswan Cruise if:

You like to party and be in the social spotlight with lots of activities.
You want to soak in an atmosphere of comfort and mingle at Egypt's most famous historical sites.
You like a considerable number of onboard amenities and entertainments.
Traveling in a group or with family and looking for something larger, more upscale.

Both Dahabiyas and Luxor to Aswan offer incredible listings for experiencing the splendor and history of the best Egypt Nile cruises, but with two kinds of interest groups behind them. If you are hungry for an intimate, quiet adventure where you can bask in the company of the Nile, then your choice should be the Dahabiya. However, should you prefer a social cruise with all the bells and whistles of a luxury resort, then the Luxor to Aswan Cruise should matter a lot to you.

Ultimately, it depends on the way you want your experience to be. This is to say that, irrespective of opting for the silent charm of a Dahabiya or the glitz and grandeur of a bigger cruise ship, you will have an unforgettable journey through one of the most enchanting places on Earth.

If you have always dreamed of exploring Egypt's ancient wonders in an extraordinary and luxurious way, then the Dahabiya Cruise on the Nile River is for you. Uniting tradition and an intimate ambience with an aura of calm and relaxation on the beauty of the Nile, the experience on a Dahabiya is unique and completely exclusive. So, what really makes this cruise so much more memorable? Let's have a look!

What is a Dahabiya Nile Cruise?

 A dahabiya Nile cruise refers to traditional wooden boats used to gracefully sail down the Nile River. A dahabiya is smaller, thus offering a private, serene, and luxurious experience. It is a graceful and gentle ride from Luxor to Aswan, allowing guests to discover ancient sites of Egypt in a tranquil and elegant ambiance.

Why Choose a Dahabiya Over Larger Nile Cruises?

Comfort and Privacy

A key feature that a Dahabiya Nile Cruise offers is intimacy. With very few passengers on board, your experience will be personalized and much more private than those larger Egypt Nile cruises. This quiet ambience is one in which you can relax and soak in the beauty of the sites of Egypt.

Unforgettable Historical Tour

The cruise will take you along the opportunities to marvel at magnificent monuments such as the Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Philae Temple in Aswan. Each moment presents the opportunity to dive deeper into the intriguing history of ancient Egypt.

Relaxing Experience With Beautiful Views

The beauty of the Dahabiya Nile Cruise is that it allows a time of true calm and relaxation as it glides along the Nile. From the sun deck, it is a uniquely relaxing occasion to take in the expansive views of the river, the sights and sounds of village life, and the greenery on the banks that contrasts against the arid landscape on the other side. Whether it is that last sip of your cold drink or chilling down watching the sunset, that tranquility is the perfect place for thoughts and unwinding.

Luxury Service and the Quiet Atmosphere

On a Dahabiya Nile Cruise, everything will be arranged for comfort. From large, spacious cabins to luxurious interiors and the friendliest service, everything is geared toward four unforgettable days. Rowing, camel rides, and traditional dancing performances add to the attraction of this special journey.

The Best Time to Take a Dahabiya Nile Cruise

The timing of your Dahabiya Nile Cruise can affect the overall experience far more than you could ever imagine. The best time to take a Dahabiya Nile Cruise usually falls sometime in between October and April. Here's why:

The Perfect Weather Conditions

Weather-wise, the temperature is mild and pleasant during these months over Egypt, great for sightseeing and other outdoor activities. Such a temperature marks very fine moments to savor a breath from the Nile while lounging on your Dahabiya's sun deck.

Less Crowded

This is a Dahabiya Nile Cruise choice intended for privacy and tranquility. Traveling between October and April will guarantee tourist minimization. You will have more time to savor enchanting sights such as the Valley of the Kings, Luxor Temple, and Philae Temple away from crowds, thus offering the Grand Prix for yourself.

An Unobstructed View of the Nile

Unobstructed panoramic views of the natural beauty of the Nile Valley await you when the skies are clear and landscapes gorgeous. Furthermore, the clear weather will brighten your photos with vivid colors along the riverbanks.

Perfect for Special Occasions

The amazing weather coupled with the less touring crowd makes for great honeymooning or any special occasion on this special Dahabiya Nile Cruise. Imagine drifting along the Nile all alone with a few other travelers, lost amidst the ancient wonders of Egypt, locked in perfect harmony with nature.

If you want hot weather, however, then May to September is for you; temperatures soar, but the crowds thin on the Nile, though heat may be your bane. Yet most justify saying the best Dahabiya Nile Cruise is from October to April with good weather, relaxed comfort, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Counting all its attributes, a Dahabiya Nile Cruise provides an absolutely exclusive way to see Egypt's timeless beauty. If you want sheer fun or just total sheikh-ness for your fun, or just a balanced dose of fun and culture, then this cruise opens a gateway to view Egypt in its most intimate and lavish setting-gifted with love by two friends. So, a serene getaway in the lap of history and scenery is an exclusive Dahabiya Nile Cruise experience for any memory.

If you are a fan of ancient Egyptian architecture and history, then you must visit Hatshepsut Temple. This temple is one of the most well-preserved temples in Egypt, and it is located on the west bank of the Nile River across from the city of Luxor. In this article, we will take you on a journey through Hatshepsut Temple, unveiling its secrets and exploring its main features. We will also provide you with tips for visiting this hidden gem and share some interesting facts about it.

Introduction to Hatshepsut Temple

Hatshepsut Temple is a mortuary temple dedicated to the queen-pharaoh Hatshepsut, who ruled Egypt during the 18th dynasty. The temple was built in the 15th century BC and it was designed by the architect Senenmut. The temple is also known as Djeser-Djeseru, which means "the most sacred of sacred places."

The temple is located in a valley surrounded by towering cliffs, which adds to its beauty and uniqueness. It consists of three terraces that rise up to a height of 97 feet. The terraces are connected by ramps and courtyards, and they are decorated with reliefs depicting the queen's achievements and the gods who protected her.

History of Hatshepsut Temple

Hatshepsut Temple was built during the New Kingdom period of ancient Egypt, which lasted from 1550 BC to 1070 BC. Hatshepsut ruled Egypt from 1478 BC to 1458 BC, and she was one of the most successful pharaohs of her time. She was known for her military campaigns, her building projects, and her trade expeditions to the Land of Punt.

Hatshepsut's temple was built to commemorate her reign and her achievements. It was also built to serve as her final resting place, as she was buried in a tomb located beneath the temple.

Architecture and Design of Hatshepsut Temple

Hatshepsut Temple is a marvel of ancient Egyptian architecture and design. It is built in a symmetrical style, with each terrace having a central axis that leads to the next terrace. The temple is also built in a way that takes advantage of the natural landscape, as it is nestled between cliffs and it blends in with the surroundings.

The temple is made of limestone, which was quarried from the nearby hills. The limestone was then transported to the temple site and carved into the shapes needed for the temple's columns, walls, and statues. The temple is decorated with reliefs depicting the queen's achievements, the gods who protected her, and scenes from her trade expeditions to the Land of Punt.

The Mysteries of Hatshepsut Temple

Hatshepsut Temple is full of mysteries and secrets that have fascinated archaeologists and historians for centuries. One of the biggest mysteries of the temple is the identity of Hatshepsut's architect, Senenmut. Some scholars believe that he was Hatshepsut's lover, while others believe that he was her chief advisor.

Another mystery of the temple is the purpose of the three terraces. Some scholars believe that they represent the three levels of the afterlife, while others believe that they represent the three stages of Hatshepsut's life.

Exploring the Main Features of Hatshepsut Temple

The temple has several main features that are worth exploring. The first feature is the colonnaded courtyard, which is located at the entrance of the temple. The courtyard is lined with 16 columns that are decorated with reliefs of the queen and the gods. The courtyard also has a statue of Hatshepsut, which was destroyed by her successor, Thutmose III.

The second feature of the temple is the hypostyle hall, which is located on the second terrace. The hall has 32 columns that support the roof, and it is decorated with reliefs depicting the queen's achievements and the gods who protected her.

The third feature of the temple is the sanctuary, which is located on the third terrace. The sanctuary is the most sacred part of the temple, and it is where the statue of the queen would have been kept. The sanctuary is also decorated with reliefs depicting the queen's achievements and the gods who protected her.

Tips for Visiting Hatshepsut Temple

If you are planning to visit Hatshepsut Temple, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved. Second, bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the temple can get hot and sunny. Third, consider hiring a guide, as they can provide you with more information about the temple and its history.

Interesting Facts About Hatshepsut Temple

Here are some interesting facts about Hatshepsut Temple:

• The temple was rediscovered in the 19th century by the French archaeologist Jean-Francois Champollion.
• The temple was damaged by an earthquake in 27 BC and it was later restored by the Romans.
• The temple was used as a Coptic Christian monastery in the 7th century AD.
• The temple was used as a backdrop for several Hollywood movies, including "The Mummy Returns" and "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen."

Hatshepsut Queen

Hatshepsut, also called Maatkare, was one of the three female pharaohs that ruled in ancient Egypt. Her name means "foremost of noblewomen." She began her reign as a regent to his stepson Thutmose III then took the full power of the Pharaoh as she claimed to be divine birth, the result of a union between her mother and the god Amun. She also claimed that ThutmoseI had named her as his successor before his death. Being the second historically-confirmed female Pharaoh, Hatshepsut was the fifth Pharaoh of the Eighteenth Dynasty of Egypt. Hatshepsut came to the throne of Egypt in 1478 BC. She was the daughter of King Thutmose I and became the queen of Egypt when she married half-brother, Thutmose II, around the age of 12. After his death, she became regent for her stepson, the infant Thutmose III, but then she had the full powers of a pharaoh, becoming co-ruler of Egypt.

Her Major accomplishments

Hatshepsut undertook hundreds of ambitious construction projects throughout both Upper Egypt and Lower Egypt. She built her mortuary temple in a complex at Deir el-Bahri, which considered one of the architectural wonders of ancient Egypt, on the West Bank of the Nile River in the ancient Thebes near the entrance of the Valley of the Kings. It was designed and implemented by Senenmut, her chief minister. Another one of her magnificent building is the Hatshepsut needle. Another great achievement of her reign was re-establishing the trade networks that had been disrupted during the Hyksos, and the trading expedition she sent, and that brought back vast riches, including ivory, ebony, gold, and leopard skins, to Egypt from a distant land known as Punt.

Why queen Hatshepsut was being unknown at first?

Queen Hatshepsut ordered to be depicted as a male in many contemporary images and sculptures. Thus, she remained unknown to scholars until the 19th century. Another reason is that Thutmose III had eradicated almost all of the evidence of Hatshepsut's rule–including the images of her as king on the temples and monuments she had built. Consequently, she remained unknown to scholars until they decoded and read the hieroglyphics on the walls of Deir el-Bahri in 1822.

The discovery of Her Mummy

In 1903, the British archeologist Howard Carter discovered Hatshepsut's sarcophagus, but it was empty, like most of the tombs in the Valley of the Kings. In June 2007, there was a discovery of a mummy in the tomb of Hatshepsut's royal nurse, Setre-In. A tooth fragment founded in a jar of organs led to identifying the body to be Hatshepsut's.

When and how did Hatshepsut die?

Hatshepsut died, in the twenty-second year of her reign, on January 16, 1458 BC, as recorded on a single stela erected at Armant. The cause of her death was a matter of speculation; some think that her stepson Thutmose III might have killed her because he erased all signs of her rule. Assuming the identification of her mummy is correct, another cause could be shown; those who examined the mummy concluded that it is most likely that the metastasized cancer killed her. The mummy shows signs of arthritis, many dental cavities and root inflammation and pockets, diabetes, and bone cancer.
Another theory derives from the dental root inflammation and pockets assumed an abscess, which in her weakened condition from cancer, was what killed her. In 2011, researchers in Germany identified a carcinogenic substance in a vial founded with Hatshepsut, which led to the notion that she may have used a lotion or cream for cosmetic reasons or to treat a skin condition that led to cancer.

Conclusion: Why Hatshepsut Temple is a Must-Visit Destination in Luxor!

Hatshepsut Temple is a must-visit destination in Luxor for anyone who is interested in ancient Egyptian history and architecture. The temple is a marvel of design and engineering, and it is full of mysteries and secrets that have fascinated scholars for centuries. If you are planning a trip to Egypt, make sure to include Hatshepsut Temple in your itinerary. You won't be disappointed!

Queen Hatshepsut was a great pharaoh, Explore her heritage through one of our Egypt vacations and Nile Cruises vacations!

Introduction to Luxor Temple

Located on the east bank of the Nile River in the city of Luxor, Luxor Temple is one of the most ancient and impressive structures in the world. It is a magnificent temple complex that was built during the New Kingdom period of Ancient Egypt, around 1400 BCE. The temple is dedicated to the god Amun, his wife Mut, and their son Khonsu. Luxor Temple is considered one of the most important religious sites in Egypt and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis.

History of Luxor Temple - who built it

The construction of Luxor Temple began during the reign of Amenhotep III, the ninth pharaoh of the 18th dynasty of Ancient Egypt. It was built on the site of an earlier temple that was constructed by Amenhotep's grandfather, Amenhotep II. The temple was then expanded and modified by later pharaohs, including Tutankhamun, Horemheb, and Ramesses II.

The temple was built to celebrate the annual Opet Festival, a major religious festival in Ancient Egypt that celebrated the union of the god Amun with the goddess Mut. During the festival, the statues of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu were taken from Karnak Temple, a larger temple complex located two miles north of Luxor Temple, and brought to Luxor Temple. The festival lasted for 27 days and was a time of great celebration and ritual.

Significance of Luxor Temple in Ancient Egyptian religion

Luxor Temple was considered one of the most important religious sites in Ancient Egypt. It was believed to be the place where the god Amun would manifest himself in his physical form, and where he would receive offerings and prayers from his followers. The temple was also considered a place of great power, and was believed to have the ability to bestow blessings and protection on those who visited it.

The temple was also home to a number of important religious ceremonies and rituals. One of the most important of these was the Opet Festival, which celebrated the union of Amun with Mut. The temple was also the site of the Sed Festival, a ceremony that was held to celebrate the pharaoh's jubilee and to reaffirm his power and authority.

Architecture of Luxor Temple

The architecture of Luxor Temple is a testament to the skill and artistry of the Ancient Egyptians. The temple is laid out in a traditional Egyptian temple style, with a series of courtyards, halls, and chambers. The temple's main entrance is through a massive pylon, or gateway, that is flanked by two massive statues of Ramesses II. Beyond the pylon is a large courtyard, surrounded by a series of smaller chambers and halls.

The most impressive part of the temple is the hypostyle hall, a massive hall with 134 columns arranged in 16 rows. The columns are each over 10 meters tall and are intricately carved with hieroglyphs and scenes from Egyptian mythology. The hall was used for a variety of religious ceremonies and rituals, and was considered one of the most sacred parts of the temple.

Exploration of the temple - main sections and features

The temple is divided into several main sections and features. The main entrance is through the pylon, which leads into the first courtyard. Beyond the courtyard is the hypostyle hall, which is considered the most impressive part of the temple. Beyond the hypostyle hall is the sanctuary, which was the most sacred part of the temple.

The sanctuary is a small chamber that contains a shrine to Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. The shrine is made of gold and is surrounded by a series of smaller chambers and rooms. The sanctuary was the site of a number of important religious ceremonies and rituals, and was considered the most powerful part of the temple.

When Was Luxor Temple Built?

The Luxor Temple was built during the New Kingdom period in ancient Egypt, around 1400 BCE. It was built to honor the god Amun, who was considered the king of all gods. The temple was constructed on the site of an older temple that was built by Amenhotep III, which was dedicated to the Theban Triad of gods – Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. However, the Luxor Temple was expanded and renovated over the centuries by many pharaohs including Tutankhamun, Ramses II, and Alexander the Great.

Where Is the Luxor Temple Located?

The Luxor Temple is located in the city of Luxor, which was the ancient capital of Egypt during the New Kingdom period. The temple is situated on the east bank of the Nile River, opposite the city of Karnak, which was also an important religious center in ancient Egypt. The Luxor Temple is easily accessible by car, taxi or public transport, and visitors can also take a boat ride across the Nile River to get to the temple.

How Big Is the Luxor Temple?

The Luxor Temple covers an area of about 25 hectares and is one of the largest and most impressive temples in Egypt. The temple is designed in the classic Egyptian architectural style, with a large courtyard, hypostyle hall, and several smaller chambers and sanctuaries. The hypostyle hall is particularly impressive, with 32 massive columns that are over 20 meters tall, and are adorned with intricate carvings and hieroglyphics.

How Old Is Luxor Temple?

The Luxor Temple is over 3,400 years old, and has been a significant religious and cultural site in Egypt for centuries. It was built during the New Kingdom period, which was a time of great prosperity and cultural achievement in ancient Egypt. The temple has survived numerous wars, invasions, and natural disasters over the centuries, and remains one of the best-preserved ancient Egyptian temples in the world.

Why Is the Luxor Temple Important?

The Luxor Temple is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it was one of the most important religious centers in ancient Egypt, and was dedicated to the god Amun, who was considered the king of all gods. The temple was also used for various ceremonies and festivals, and was an important political and economic center as well. Secondly, the Luxor Temple is a remarkable example of ancient Egyptian architecture and art, and is adorned with beautiful carvings, hieroglyphics, and statues that depict various gods, pharaohs, and other important figures. Finally, the Luxor Temple is also an important archaeological site, and has yielded many important discoveries over the years, including the remains of ancient buildings, artifacts, and inscriptions.

Luxor Temple Opening Hours

The Luxor Temple is open to visitors daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. However, it is recommended to visit the temple in the early morning or late afternoon when it is less crowded and the light is more favorable for photography. Visitors are also advised to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, and to bring plenty of water and sunscreen as the temple can get very hot and dry during the day.

Unique facts and secrets about Luxor Temple

Despite being one of the most well-known and well-studied temples in Egypt, Luxor Temple still holds many secrets and mysteries. One of the most interesting of these is the fact that the temple was built on top of an even older temple, which was dedicated to the god Amun. The remains of this older temple can still be seen in the foundations of the current temple.

Another interesting fact about Luxor Temple is that it was used as a Christian church during the Roman period. Many of the temple's original features and decorations were destroyed or covered up during this time, but some traces of the original temple can still be seen.

Restoration and preservation of Luxor Temple

Luxor Temple has undergone a number of restoration and preservation projects over the years. In the 19th century, the temple was cleaned and restored by French archaeologist Gaston Maspero. More recently, the temple has undergone a major restoration project funded by the Egyptian government and UNESCO. The project involved cleaning and repairing the temple's walls and columns, as well as restoring some of the original decorations and features.

Visiting Luxor Temple - tips and recommendations

If you are planning a visit to Luxor Temple, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the temple complex is quite large and involves a lot of walking. You should also bring plenty of water, as it can get quite hot in Luxor. It's also a good idea to bring a guidebook or hire a guide, as the temple is quite complex and can be difficult to navigate without some background knowledge.

Luxor Temple Entrance Fee

The entrance fee for the Luxor Temple varies depending on your nationality and age. For foreign tourists, the entrance fee is 200 Egyptian pounds (EGP), which is roughly equivalent to $12 USD. For students and children, the entrance fee is 100 EGP. However, if you are an Egyptian citizen or resident, the entrance fee is only 20 EGP.

Other temples in Luxor - a brief overview

Luxor is home to a number of other important temples, including Hatshepsut Temple, Valley of the kings,  Karnak Temple, Medinet Habu, and the Ramesseum. Karnak Temple is the largest temple complex in Egypt and is located just two miles north of Luxor Temple. Medinet Habu is a temple complex that was built by Ramesses III and is located on the west bank of the Nile. The Ramesseum is a temple that was built by Ramesses II and is located on the west bank of the Nile.

Conclusion - the enduring legacy of Luxor Temple

Luxor Temple is a testament to the skill and artistry of the Ancient Egyptians. It is a magnificent temple complex that has been the site of religious ceremonies and rituals for thousands of years. Despite being thousands of years old, the temple still holds many secrets and mysteries, and continues to be a source of fascination and wonder for visitors from around the world. If you are planning a trip to Egypt, be sure to include a visit to Luxor Temple on your itinerary.

Are you planning a visit to Egypt? Don't miss the chance to explore the ancient and enchanting Luxor Temple. Book your Egypt Vacation today and experience the wonders of this incredible temple complex.