Map of Valley of the Kings Egypt – Royal Tombs & Visitor Guide

The Valley of the Kings is one of the world's most important archaeological landscapes and one of Egypt's greatest historic attractions. Located on the west bank of the Nile opposite Luxor, the desert valley served as the principal royal burial ground for pharaohs and powerful nobles during Egypt's New Kingdom.

Hidden within the limestone hills are dozens of rock-cut tombs decorated with hieroglyphs, religious texts and vividly coloured scenes intended to guide the deceased through the afterlife. The valley is especially famous for the tomb of Tutankhamun, discovered by Howard Carter in 1922, although many other royal tombs contain even more extensive corridors, chambers and wall paintings.

This map of the Valley of the Kings Egypt provides a location guide to the main visitor centre, ticket area, principal tomb valley, walking routes, transport connections and nearby West Bank attractions.

Quick Answer

The Valley of the Kings is located on Luxor's west bank in southern Egypt, within the UNESCO-listed Ancient Thebes and its Necropolis. Visitors begin at the main visitor centre and ticket area before walking or taking the short electric shuttle deeper into the valley where the open royal tombs are located.

Map of Valley of the Kings Egypt

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

Where Is the Valley of the Kings Located?

The Valley of the Kings lies within the Theban Hills on the western side of the Nile, opposite the modern city of Luxor. Its isolated desert setting was selected partly because the surrounding cliffs provided a concealed and naturally protected location for royal burials.

The main archaeological area is known as the East Valley, where most of the famous royal tombs are located. A separate West Valley contains additional tombs but is less frequently visited and may require different access arrangements.

Valley Features

• UNESCO World Heritage setting
• Royal tombs dating from Egypt's New Kingdom
• Tomb of Tutankhamun
• Tomb of Seti I
• Tomb of Ramesses III
• Tomb of Ramesses IV
• Tomb of Ramesses V and VI
• Tomb of Ramesses IX
• Decorated corridors and burial chambers
• Hieroglyphs and ancient funerary texts
• Main visitor centre and ticket facilities
• Short electric shuttle into the tomb area

Top Attractions Nearby

• Valley of the Kings
• Tomb of Tutankhamun
• Tomb of Seti I
• Tomb of Ramesses III
• Tomb of Ramesses IV
• Tomb of Ramesses V and VI
• Temple of Hatshepsut
• Valley of the Queens
• Colossi of Memnon
• Medinet Habu
• Deir el-Medina
• Ramesseum

Transport and Getting Around

Most visitors reach the Valley of the Kings by taxi, private driver, organised tour or tour coach from Luxor. Travellers staying on the east bank must cross the Nile by bridge or ferry before continuing through the West Bank archaeological area.

Visitors arrive at the main ticket and visitor centre near the entrance to the valley. From there, a short electric shuttle carries passengers toward the central tomb area, although the route can also be walked. Once inside the valley, the tombs are reached on foot using paved and gravel paths.

The number of tombs open to visitors can vary because sites are periodically closed for conservation, restoration and crowd management. Standard admission generally provides access to a selection of regular tombs, while particularly famous tombs may require separate tickets.

Best Areas to Explore

The central East Valley contains the largest concentration of visitor-accessible tombs. Tomb entrances are positioned along several branches of the valley, with signs and pathways directing visitors between the sites open on the day.

The tomb of Tutankhamun is one of the valley's most famous attractions because of the extraordinary objects discovered there. Its burial chambers are relatively compact compared with several other royal tombs, but the site's historical significance continues to attract large numbers of visitors.

The tombs of Ramesses III, Ramesses IV, Ramesses V and VI, and Ramesses IX are known for their long corridors, detailed reliefs and colourful astronomical or religious decoration. The tomb of Seti I is among the most elaborate in the valley but may require an additional ticket.

Nearby Destinations

• Temple of Hatshepsut
• Valley of the Queens
• Deir el-Medina
• Medinet Habu
• Ramesseum
• Colossi of Memnon
• Luxor Temple
• Karnak Temple
• Luxor Museum
• Nile River

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Valley of the Kings located?

The Valley of the Kings is located on the west bank of the Nile near Luxor in southern Egypt.

What is the Valley of the Kings famous for?

The valley is famous for the rock-cut tombs of New Kingdom pharaohs, including Tutankhamun, Seti I, Ramesses III and several other rulers named Ramesses.

Where should visitors begin their visit?

Visitors begin at the main Valley of the Kings visitor centre and ticket area before continuing by electric shuttle or on foot toward the royal tombs.

Are all the tombs open at the same time?

No. Tombs may open or close on a rotating basis for conservation, restoration and visitor management. Travellers should check which tombs are accessible when they arrive.

Does the standard ticket include Tutankhamun's tomb?

The standard entrance ticket may not include every special tomb. Tutankhamun, Seti I and some other tombs can require separate tickets, depending on current arrangements.

How long should visitors spend at the Valley of the Kings?

Most visitors spend between two and four hours exploring the visitor centre and several tombs. A longer visit may be needed when combining the valley with other Luxor West Bank attractions.

What should visitors wear?

Comfortable footwear, lightweight clothing, sun protection and a hat are strongly recommended. The valley is exposed, hot and largely without shade.

Is the Valley of the Kings worth visiting?

Yes. It is one of Egypt's most significant archaeological sites and offers an exceptional opportunity to enter decorated royal tombs dating back more than 3,000 years.

Related Maps

Disclaimer

This guide is provided for general travel information only. Tomb openings, admission fees, special-ticket requirements, visitor routes, shuttle services, transport arrangements and local conditions may change. Always check official sources before travelling.