On Luxor’s West Bank lies one of the most iconic burial places in human history—The Valley of the Kings. For over 500 years, this sacred necropolis became the resting place of the greatest pharaohs and nobles of Egypt. From secret chambers to elaborate sculpture and an otherworldly ambience, the site remains forever enticing to archaeologists and tourists alike. The Valley is not merely a historical site but an entry into Egypt's obsession with the afterlife.
A Royal Resting Place: History of the Valley
The Valley of the Kings was developed by Egypt's New Kingdom (c. 1550–1070 BCE) as a more secure and sacred burial place for the royalty, replacing the traditional pyramid complexes. Tucked in the rugged cliffs west of the Nile, it harbors more than 60 tombs carved deep into the rock to protect the pharaohs from tomb robbers. Among them are the famous kings Ramses II, Seti I, and Thutmose III. Each tomb was constructed to serve as a grave but also as a carefully contrived gateway to the afterlife.
The Tomb of Tutankhamun:
The discovery of King Tutankhamun's tomb by Howard Carter in 1922 proved to be a turning point in the history of archaeology. This was one of the rare tombs to be discovered practically intact, bursting with wonderful treasures-from golden coffins to ceremonial chariots. The discovery captured global attention and sparked a new wave in the field of Egyptology. Replicas of many of the objects can now be seen in Luxor and Cairo, but the actual viewing of the tomb itself in the valley remains an awe-inspiring experience, especially when taken as part of a Luxor day tour.

Inside the Tombs: Art, Symbolism, and Afterlife Beliefs
If you enter just any royal tomb, you'll be met with wall and ceiling paintings that are colorful and symbolic. These paintings are not simply for decoration; rather, they tend to serve spiritual functions to guide the soul through the underworld. Hieroglyphics from the Book of the Dead, images of protective gods, and cosmic symbols create a spiritual map for the journey of eternity for the pharaoh. Exploring these tiny details extends much background into the ancient Egyptians' belief system, making it a deeply moving memory for today's viewer.

How to Visit: The Valley of the Kings on Your Luxor Day Tour
Planning to make the Valley of the Kings part of your Luxor day trip? It certainly should be! Tickets are purchased at the entrance, and your general pass grants you access to three tombs of your choice, with extra charges applicable for special tombs like those of Tutankhamun, Seti I, or Ramses VI. Wear comfy shoes, carry some water to stay hydrated, and if you can, start early so you won't have to share the place with crowded groups or feel alone under the sweltering sun. Being guided by a certified Egyptologist will make the experience greatly worthwhile—literally every wall symbol or chamber has a story to tell worth listening to.
The Valley of the Kings is more than a site of history-the valley is an experience of the soul of ancient Egypt. From the grandeur of the tombs to the timeless legends that are interred within, every walk through the valley casts shades of intrigue on one of the world's last truly interesting civilizations. The valley makes an unforgettable Luxor tourist attraction that would make any visit to Egypt worthwhile, whether walking through in the footsteps of Carter or staring in awe at walls covered with hieroglyphs.