Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut
A breathtaking New Kingdom mortuary temple carved into dramatic cliffs, showcasing Queen Hatshepsut's power and architectural genius.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid heat & crowds
Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut
Best Time
Avoid heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking New Kingdom mortuary temple carved into dramatic cliffs, showcasing Queen Hatshepsut's power and architectural genius.
"This temple is visually brilliant, so picture-esque, and we had the best time seeing all parts of the temple!"
🎯 Arrive Early for Serenity
Beat the heat and the biggest crowds by arriving right at opening. You'll have more space to explore and take photos.
☀️ Prepare for the Sun
It gets very hot! Bring plenty of water, wear a hat, sunscreen, and light clothing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Terraced Architecture
Deir el-Bahari
A stunning, multi-level temple carved directly into the dramatic cliffs. Its unique design is a masterpiece of New Kingdom architecture.
Hatshepsut's Story
Temple Walls
Admire detailed carvings depicting the life and reign of Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt's most powerful female pharaohs.
Dramatic Cliff Backdrop
Exterior
The temple's integration with the towering, rugged cliffs creates a breathtaking and unforgettable visual spectacle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Ticketing and Transport Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Serenity
Beat the heat and the biggest crowds by arriving right at opening. You'll have more space to explore and take photos.
☀️ Prepare for the Sun
It gets very hot! Bring plenty of water, wear a hat, sunscreen, and light clothing.
🚶♂️ Walk from the Gate
Skip the electric caddy; the short walk offers stunning views and photo opportunities.
💳 Card Payment for Tickets
The ticket office prefers card or QR code payments, so have your payment method ready.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Serenity
Beat the heat and the biggest crowds by arriving right at opening. You'll have more space to explore and take photos.
☀️ Prepare for the Sun
It gets very hot! Bring plenty of water, wear a hat, sunscreen, and light clothing.
🚶♂️ Walk from the Gate
Skip the electric caddy; the short walk offers stunning views and photo opportunities.
💳 Card Payment for Tickets
The ticket office prefers card or QR code payments, so have your payment method ready.
📸 Capture the Scale
The temple's grandeur is best captured by showing its scale against the cliffs or people.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awestruck by the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, praising its unique terraced architecture carved into dramatic cliffs and the detailed historical narratives on its walls. Many highlight the impressive restoration efforts that bring the grandeur of Queen Hatshepsut's reign to life. While some note it can get crowded and hot, the breathtaking setting and historical significance make it an unforgettable experience.
"Words cannot describe this temple. Ancient, monumental, historic. This temple is visually brilliant, so picture-esque, and we had the best time seeing all parts of the temple!"
Rajiv Shah
"Ето предложение за по-дълго ревю на английски за Храма на Хатшепсут:
⸻
“The Temple of Hatshepsut is an extraordinary site in Luxor, unlike any other temple in Egypt. Its unique terraced design, built into the cliffs, is both impressive and elegant. Walking through the temple, you can admire the detailed carvings and learn about the remarkable life of Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s few female pharaohs. The location at the foot of the cliffs adds a dramatic and breathtaking backdrop."
Atanas Valchev
"Stunning architecture bearing in mind the age of this complex. It is a popular place to visit in Luxor. It gets really crowded at times as tour groups and excursions pass through here.
You probably don’t need anymore than 30-60 minutes here at it is not a big site.
The setting is breathtaking. You can get an electric caddy trip from the gate to the foot of the temple for 20 EGP as of April 2025. Frankly I preferred walking as you get unrivalled views, besides, it is a very short walk.
If you do use the cafes to the left side of the temple, do ask for the price in advance.
It can get very hot there so prepare appropriately.
No cash payment at ticket office. Either by card or scanning QR code when on site."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The temple is located on the West Bank of Luxor. You can hire a taxi, take a local bus, or join an organized tour from Luxor. Many visitors combine it with other West Bank sites like the Valley of the Kings. +1
No, the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut is relatively close to the Valley of the Kings, often visited on the same day trip. +1
Taxis are common, but agree on a price beforehand. Some tours offer comfortable air-conditioned transport.
Yes, there's a path from the entrance gate. An electric caddy is available for a small fee (around 20 EGP), but walking offers better views.
The main terraces are accessible, but some areas might be challenging due to uneven surfaces and stairs. Inquire locally for specific accessibility details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but it's advisable to check the official Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities website for current rates.
Yes, tickets are available for purchase at the site. However, cash payment might not be accepted; card or QR code payment is preferred.
The temple is typically open from early morning until late afternoon. It's best to confirm the exact hours for your visit, as they can change seasonally.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance can save time, especially during peak tourist seasons. Online options are often available.
If you plan to visit multiple sites in Luxor, a Luxor Pass might offer cost savings. Research the included sites and compare prices.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, cameras are generally allowed for personal use. However, tripods and professional photography equipment might require special permits.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, making for more dramatic and peaceful shots.
Be mindful of restricted areas and always follow the instructions of site staff. Avoid flash photography in sensitive areas.
The terraced levels, the colonnades, the detailed reliefs, and the dramatic cliff backdrop are all incredibly photogenic.
Drone usage is generally restricted at archaeological sites in Egypt. It's best to check current regulations before your visit.
🎫 ⏳ Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend about 30-60 minutes exploring the main areas, as it's not as vast as some other temples.
Light, breathable clothing is essential due to the heat. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Restrooms are available. Cafes are located to the left of the temple; be sure to ask for prices in advance.
Yes, there is a fair amount of walking, especially if you choose to walk from the entrance. The temple itself has multiple levels.
Its unique terraced design built into the cliffs, and its focus on a female pharaoh, set it apart. It's also known for its extensive restoration.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To manage the heat, bring plenty of water and snacks, and consider visiting during cooler parts of the day. The electric caddy from the entrance might be a fun ride for children, but the walk is also manageable and offers great views. Visiting other nearby sites like the Valley of the Kings can add to the adventure, but pace yourselves to avoid exhaustion.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Pack your own water and snacks to save money on site. Focus on the main temple areas, as the experience is still profound without needing extensive time or additional paid extras. The walk from the entrance is free and offers great photo ops.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles to convey the temple's scale and its integration with the natural landscape. The detailed reliefs also provide excellent subjects for close-up shots. Remember to be respectful of the site and other visitors when composing your photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Remarkable Queen Hatshepsut
+1Her temple, known as Djeser-Djeseru ('most sacred of places'), was designed by her chief architect, Senenmut. It's a testament to her desire to solidify her legacy and connect with the divine. The temple's reliefs detail her divine birth, her trade expedition to the Land of Punt, and her devotion to the god Amun-Ra.
+1Despite her achievements, later rulers attempted to erase her from history, defacing her images and inscriptions. However, the sheer scale and unique architecture of her mortuary temple have ensured her story endures, making it a crucial site for understanding this extraordinary female pharaoh.
Architectural Marvel at Deir el-Bahari
+1Each terrace served distinct purposes, from chapels dedicated to Hathor and Anubis to the main sanctuary of Amun-Ra. The temple's construction involved extensive use of limestone and intricate carvings that, thanks to significant restoration efforts, still tell vivid stories of Hatshepsut's reign.
This architectural style was groundbreaking for its time and has influenced design for centuries. The temple's integration with the surrounding cliffs provides a unique visual experience, making it one of the most iconic and aesthetically pleasing ancient sites in Egypt.
+1Visiting Luxor's West Bank
Other significant sites in the vicinity include the Colossi of Memnon, massive stone statues that once guarded a mortuary temple, and the Ramesseum, the mortuary temple of Ramesses II. Exploring these sites offers a comprehensive understanding of ancient Egyptian funerary practices and royal power.
To make the most of your West Bank exploration, consider hiring a local guide or joining a reputable tour. This will not only help you navigate the sites efficiently but also provide invaluable historical context and insights that bring these ancient wonders to life.
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