Located on the east bank of the Nile River, Karnak Temple is easily one of Luxor’s most visited attractions. The temple complex is well over 2,000 years old and is home to dozens of fascinating historical artifacts and artworks

Book your Karnak Temple tour in Luxor to discover one of the most incredible wonders of Ancient Egypt. As the largest temple complex in the entire country, there is no shortage of sphynxes, pylons, columns, and other interesting architectural features.

Here's all you need to know about Karnak Temple, one of the most exciting attractions in Luxor.

Should you book in advance?

If you are visiting Karnak Temple independently, you do not need to worry about booking tickets in advance as you can simply purchase tickets at the ticket office on the day of your visit.

Just make sure that you are carrying the local currency, Egyptian Pounds, on you to pay for your ticket.

If you’re interested in joining a guided tour of Karnak Temple, it is a good idea to reserve your place on your preferred excursion ahead of time. Karnak Temple tours in Luxor are very popular and can sell out quickly, especially in peak season.

What are the best Karnak Temple tours?

Guided Karnak Temple tours

Guided Karnak Temple tours offer an affordable way to visit one of Luxor’s most popular attractions. Join a group of like-minded travelers as you explore Karnak Temple, led by your local English-speaking guide.

Private Karnak Temple tours

Although slightly more expensive than group tours, private tours allow you to make the most of your time at Karnak Temple. You and your travel companions will be the only tour participants, so you will have plenty of opportunities to chat with your guide and ask questions.

Karnak Temple Sound and Light Show

A magnificent sound and light show takes place at the Karnak Temple every evening. There are typically two shows per evening, with the later show usually taking place in English and the earlier shows taking place in either French or German.

Are there any combined tickets or tours including Karnak Temple and other attractions?

Combination tickets and tours provide a great way to save time and money during your time in Luxor as you’ll get to see the magnificent Karnak Temple in addition to other popular attractions.

Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple tour: These two temples are most commonly visited together because of the temples’ close proximity to one another. Luxor Temple is located just 3 kilometers away from Karnak Temple.

Valley of the Kings & Queens, Hatshepsut Temple and Karnak Temple tour: Explore Luxor’s east and west banks with a full-day excursion that takes you to some of the ancient city’s most iconic monuments.

Hot Air Balloon Ride, Valley of the Kings & Queens and Karnak Temple: See the beautiful city of Luxor from a different perspective as you soar above it in a hot air balloon. Afterward, your guide will take you to see some of Luxor’s top attractions.

Private Karnak Temple tour by traditional felucca: Board a traditional felucca and enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Nile River at sunset as you marvel at the beauty of Karnak Temple from the water.

What will you see inside?

Karnak Temple is known for being the largest temple complex in all of Egypt. Expanded over the course of 15 centuries, the massive structures within the complex are truly awe-inspiring.

The temple was originally dedicated to the deities Amun, Mut and Khonsu and the temple’s three distinct districts are named after these gods. The Great Temple of Amun is the district that is most popular as it has remained in the best condition.

As you enter the complex, you’ll walk through an avenue of intricately carved sphinxes, which provide a great photo opportunity for visitors. The Great Hypostyle Hall is one of the most notable attractions within the complex as it is the largest room, with an impressive 146 columns.

The inner walls of the Great Hypostyle Hall are filled with beautiful relief carvings that depict various sacrifices, processions and festivals. On the outer walls, you’ll see various war and battle scenes carved in the same style.

The temple complex is also home to an open-air museum, made up of various statues and two chapels. Other attractions within the complex include Thutmose III’s Festival Hall, Khonsu Temple, the Egyptian-Hittite Peace Treaty and the Sacred Lake.

How to get there?

Karnak Temple can be found on the east bank of the Nile River, in close proximity to other attractions such as Luxor Temple and Luxor Museum. Karnak Temple can easily be reached by car, taxi or public transport.

Taxis in Luxor are relatively affordable and provide the easiest and most convenient way for you to get from your hotel to Karnak Temple. If you are staying on the west bank, you’ll need to take a ferry over to the east bank before making your way to Karnak Temple.

What are the opening times?

Karnak Temple is open between 6 AM and 7 PM in spring and summer, and between 6 AM and 5:30 PM in winter and autumn.

The sound and light shows at Karnak Temple take place outside of the temple’s official opening times, and typically begin at either 6:30 PM or 7 PM, depending on the season.

Which other attractions can be visited in Luxor?

Travel Tips

Show respect as the The Karnak Temple is a historic place, by not climbing on the structures, touching the ancient carvings.
It's important to dress modestly so ensure your shoulders, chest, and knees are covered.
It's advisable carry local currency to have local currency as there may be entrance fees and additional charges for services at the temple.
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes to navigate the Karnak Temple comfortably.
Stay hydrated as Luxor can have intense sunlight. Protect yourself from sunburn by wearing sunscreen and a hat.

Karnak temple: Tickets and Tours