Valley of the Kings Guide: Tombs, History & Travel Tips

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to walk through doorways carved for kings who ruled 3,000 years ago? The Valley of the Kings isn’t just a historic site—it’s a journey into the afterlife, where every painted wall and hidden chamber tells the story of Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs.

Topics we’ll explore in this post:

1. Where is the Valley of the Kings located?
2. Why was Valley of the Kings built?
3. Why the Pharaohs Chose This Valley?
4. When was the Valley of the Kings discovered?
5. Best Tombs in the Valley of the Kings
6. Which Tombs are Open in the Valley of the Kings?
7. How Much Does It Cost to Visit the Valley of the Kings?
8. How to Get Around the Valley of the Kings?
9. How to Get Around the Valley of the Kings? (practical detail)

Valley of the Kings (Luxor): A Complete Traveler’s Guide to Egypt’s Royal Necropolis

Valley of the Kings is one of those places that instantly shifts how you feel about history. Within the first few minutes of arriving, it stops being “ancient Egypt in a textbook” and becomes something real: sun-bleached cliffs, quiet desert air, and doorways leading into painted worlds underground.

Set on Luxor’s West Bank, the Valley of the Kings is the sacred burial ground of New Kingdom pharaohs — rulers who built Egypt’s most powerful empire. For nearly 500 years, kings and a few elite nobles carved their tombs into these hills, filling them with spell texts, cosmic ceilings, and scenes designed to guide the soul into eternity. 

Today, visiting the Valley is about more than checking off famous tombs. It’s about stepping into the mindset of an ancient civilization that believed death wasn’t an ending — it was a journey. And the Valley of the Kings is where that journey began.

1.Where is the Valley of the Kings located?

The Valley of the Kings is on the west bank of the Nile River in Luxor, opposite the modern city. It lies within the Theban Necropolis, a UNESCO-listed area filled with tombs and temples from Egypt’s golden age.

The West Bank location wasn’t random. The ancient Egyptians associated the west with the afterlife because that’s where the sun “died” each evening. So while Luxor’s East Bank was the land of temples and living rituals, the West Bank became the land of burial and eternity.

History of the Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings became Egypt’s primary royal burial site during the New Kingdom (18th–20th Dynasties). Instead of building giant pyramids visible from miles away, pharaohs chose hidden, rock-cut tombs. This shift reflected both religious change and practical security.

Over time, dozens of tombs were built here, each more elaborate than the last. Some pharaohs reigned long enough to complete massive underground palaces; others died suddenly and were buried in smaller tombs. The Valley’s tomb designs evolved, but most followed a descending corridor into a decorated burial chamber that symbolized the sun god’s nightly voyage through the underworld. 

Even after the Valley stopped being used for royal burials, priests continued to protect (and sometimes redistribute) mummies during times of unrest. This is why many royal mummies were eventually found in hidden caches elsewhere in the Theban hills.

2.Why was Valley of the Kings built?

It was built for three main reasons:

1. Security. Pyramids were stunning, but they were also obvious targets. Tomb robbery was widespread by the end of the Old Kingdom, so New Kingdom rulers needed hidden burials.
2. Geography. The Valley’s cliffs were easy to carve and naturally isolated, minimizing floods and unwanted visitors.
3. Religion. The New Kingdom introduced a richer set of beliefs about the afterlife. Tombs weren’t just storage for a body; they were cosmic maps meant to guide the pharaoh’s soul to rebirth.

In other words, the Valley of the Kings is a masterpiece of both spiritual imagination and real-world problem-solving.

3.Why the Pharaohs Chose This Valley?

The Valley wasn’t simply “a quiet desert.” It was chosen deliberately because:

• It’s close to Deir el-Medina, the workers’ village where tomb builders lived, allowing skilled teams to work efficiently.
• Its twisted wadis and cliffs allowed entrances to be hidden under rubble or within natural shadows.
• The limestone layers were strong enough to carve long corridors while still being workable.

Pharaohs wanted a place that matched their status: sacred, secure, and symbolic. This valley fit all three.

Inside the Valley of the Kings: Architecture and Meaning

Once you enter a tomb, you’ll notice patterns that show how seriously ancient Egyptians took the afterlife:

• Descending corridors = the sun god’s journey underground.
• Pillared halls = stages of transformation and protection.
• Burial chambers = the cosmic womb where rebirth happens.
• Ceilings painted with stars or sky books = the pharaoh joining the heavens

Tomb walls are filled with sacred texts like the Book of Gates, Amduat, and Book of the Dead, which describe dangers and helpers the soul would meet beyond death. Even if you don’t read hieroglyphs, you can feel the intention: this is art designed to protect and empower.

4.When was the Valley of the Kings discovered?

Local people always knew the valley existed, but systematic exploration by Western archaeologists began in the late 1700s and early 1800s. The modern numbering system (“KV” for Kings’ Valley) was introduced in the 1820s, and dozens of tombs were documented during the 19th and 20th centuries. 

The most famous discovery — Tutankhamun’s tomb (KV62) — was made by Howard Carter in November 1922, after years of searching.
Even in the 21st century, the valley continues to produce discoveries and restorations, showing that this landscape is still being understood.

5.Best Tombs in the Valley of the Kings

There are more than 60 known tombs in the valley, and a rotating selection is open to visitors. Because not all tombs are open at once, it helps to know which ones are most worth prioritizing. 

Below are three of the most famous and visually stunning tombs — and you specifically asked to feature them in detail.

Tomb of Ramesses VI (KV9)

The Tomb of Ramesses VI is often considered one of the most beautiful tombs you can actually enter. Built for Ramesses V and later reused by Ramesses VI, KV9 is a showcase of late New Kingdom funerary art.

What makes KV9 special:

• Celestial ceilings. The corridors and chambers are covered in starry blue “sky books” that represent the structure of the universe and the pharaoh’s path through it.
• Crystal-clear reliefs. The wall carvings are deeply cut and filled with mythological scenes from the Books of the Underworld.
• Straight, dramatic layout. Unlike earlier bent-axis tombs, KV9 leads you through long, symmetrical corridors that build anticipation toward the burial chamber.

When you walk through KV9, you feel like the tomb is telling a story in sequence. It’s one of the easiest tombs to “read” visually, even without a guide.

Traveler tip:
If KV9 is open, make it one of your included tombs on the standard ticket — it delivers huge value for the time you spend inside.

Tomb of Sety I (KV17)

KV17 is often called the finest tomb in the Valley of the Kings, and with good reason. Discovered in 1817 by Belzoni, it’s enormous, richly decorated, and artistically refined. 

Why KV17 stands out:

• Unmatched artistry. The paintings and reliefs are delicate and layered, showing mythology with breathtaking precision.
• Huge scale. Sety I ruled long enough to build a tomb that feels like an underground palace, not just a corridor.
• Depth of symbolism. The texts inside focus on the pharaoh’s rebirth and celestial union, not just protection.

KV17 almost always requires a special ticket, and it’s considerably more expensive than standard tombs — but for travelers who love art and history, it’s often worth it. 

Traveler tip:
If you only buy one extra tomb ticket in the valley, Sety I is the one most travelers say they never regret.

Tomb of Tutankhamun

Tutankhamun’s tomb (KV62) is famous for its discovery, not its size. It’s one of the smallest royal tombs in the valley, likely because Tutankhamun died unexpectedly as a teenager

Why visit anyway?

• This is where the king himself was found in 1922, along with treasures that transformed our knowledge of Egypt.
• The burial chamber still holds the pharaoh’s mummy, giving you a rare, direct connection to a historical individual.
• The wall paintings are simple but moving, focused on burial rituals and transition to the afterlife.

KV62 also requires an extra ticket separate from the standard entry.
Because of heavy traffic, conservation concerns have grown in recent years, and visitation rules may change as preservation work continues. 

Traveler tip:
If you’re choosing between KV62 and another richly painted tomb, prioritize art elsewhere — then add Tutankhamun only if you’re personally fascinated by him.

Exploring the Valley of the Kings

Most visits follow a simple rhythm:

1. Walk from the visitor center into the valley.
2. Choose three tombs included in your general ticket.
3. Add extra tomb tickets if desired.
4. Spend time exploring the valley floor and viewpoints.

The experience is intense but manageable — not because it’s small, but because it’s organized.

Expect:

• Bright desert heat outside
• Cool air and humidity inside tombs
• Short stair descents and narrow corridors
• Guards stamping your ticket at each tomb entrance

Many travelers underestimate how emotional this visit can feel. Some tombs are quiet and meditative, others vibrant and overwhelming. Give yourself time between tombs to reset.

6.Which Tombs are Open in the Valley of the Kings?

Tombs open to visitors rotate depending on restoration, conservation, and crowd levels. On any given day, roughly 8–10 tombs are open in the main valley, with a few requiring special tickets. 

Commonly open (subject to change):

• Ramesses III (KV11)
• Ramesses IV (KV2)
• Merenptah (KV8)
• Ramesses IX (KV6)
• Sety I (KV17 — special ticket)
• Ramesses VI (KV9 — sometimes special ticket)
• Tutankhamun (KV62 — special ticket)

Traveler tip:
Check the tomb list at the ticket office the same morning you visit. The open set can change with almost no notice.

7.How Much Does It Cost to Visit the Valley of the Kings?

Ticket prices have risen in recent years, and the Valley uses tiered pricing:

• General entry ticket includes 3 tombs.
• Special tickets are required for premium tombs like Sety I, Tutankhamun, or occasionally Ramesses VI.

Recent published 2025 pricing examples (subject to change):

• General entry: around 750 EGP
• Tutankhamun (KV62): extra fee
• Sety I (KV17): high extra fee
• Ramesses VI (KV9): moderate extra fee

Important: Prices can be updated by the Ministry of Tourism. Always confirm at the official ticket booth.

8.How to Get Around the Valley of the Kings?

Once you arrive at the visitor center, you have two ways to enter the valley floor:

1. Walk (about 10–15 minutes uphill in sun).
2. Electric tram/golf cart shuttle, which is inexpensive and saves energy.

Inside the valley, everything is pedestrian. Tomb entrances are spread along a single main route, so visiting three tombs feels like a looping walk rather than a complicated hike.

Traveler tip:
Even in winter, bring water. The valley is open desert with very little shade.

9.How to Get Around the Valley of the Kings? (practical detail)

To make your visit smoother:

• Start with the tomb farthest from the entrance, then work back.
• Alternate a “big” tomb with a smaller one to avoid fatigue.
• Take breaks in shade whenever possible.
• Keep a light scarf or layer for inside tombs, where air can feel cooler and more humid.

Tomb of Ramesses VI (KV9) — revisit in context

Because you specifically listed KV9 in your titles, here’s a final note in the “planning” context:

If KV9 is open on your day, it’s a perfect choice for:

• First-timers who want instantly impressive art
• Photographers who love bold color
• Travelers who want a tomb that feels “complete” visually

Tomb of Sety I (KV17) — revisit in context

KV17 is best for:

• Ancient art lovers
• Travelers willing to pay for a premium tomb
• Visitors who want the deepest, most refined experience in the valley

Tomb of Tutankhamun — revisit in context

Tutankhamun’s tomb is best for:

• Travelers interested in the human side of history
• Those who want to see a royal mummy in place
• Anyone who feels a personal connection to his story

Practical travel tips for a great visit

• Go early. The valley gets busy between 10 AM and 1 PM.
• Wear shoes with grip. The ground is sandy and uneven.
• Expect no flash photography. Rules vary, but flash is always discouraged for conservation.
• Don’t rush. Three tombs may sound quick, but the sensory impact adds up.
• Bring small cash. Useful for shuttle, tips, or nearby stands.

Subtle travel-planning note

Many travelers find that the Valley of the Kings becomes more meaningful with contextual storytelling. A knowledgeable guide can connect the tomb art to living Egyptian mythology, explain why specific pharaohs mattered, and help you choose the best tomb set for your interests. Private, well-structured tours often remove logistical stress while letting you focus on the experience. 

FAQ

1. What is the Valley of the Kings?

The Valley of the Kings is a royal burial valley in Luxor where New Kingdom pharaohs carved tombs into the desert cliffs for nearly 500 years.

2. How many tombs can you visit with one ticket?

A general ticket usually allows entry into three tombs, while famous tombs like Tutankhamun or Sety I need separate extra tickets. 

3. Which tombs are the best to see?

Many visitors love Ramesses VI (KV9) for its vivid art, Sety I (KV17) for its scale and refinement, and Ramesses III (KV11) for its colorful completeness. Open tombs rotate.

4. How long does a visit take?

Most travelers spend 2–3 hours inside the valley, depending on crowds and how many extra tombs they add. 

5. When is the best time to visit?

The most comfortable season is October through April, when Luxor’s temperatures make outdoor exploring easy and pleasant. 

The Valley of the Kings is one of those rare places that doesn’t just show you history — it lets you walk into it. Every corridor, ceiling, and painted god was created for a purpose: to protect a king’s soul and help him reach eternity. And today, it invites you to pause, look closely, and feel the scale of what ancient Egyptians believed was possible.

If you’re ready to experience the Valley of the Kings in the most seamless, insight-rich way — with expert guidance, trusted service, and a flexible Luxor itinerary — plan your trip through Nile Travel Machine.
Explore your Luxor adventure and book your visit here: https://www.niletravelmachine.com