Can you visit the tomb of Tutankhamun?
One of the most captivating travel experiences you can enjoy during your Egypt trip is visiting the Valley of the Kings in Luxor!
The ancient burial ground for the god-like Pharaohs was first discovered in 1922, and as of today is a major tourist attraction for global visitors, and one of Luxor’s main sites. When you enter inside the different tombs, you will find some original sarcophagus’, hieroglyphics, and even a 3300 year old mummy.
Exploring the tomb of Tutankhamun is a unique history lesson to remember, but how do you enter King Tut’s tomb?
This blog will cover all the information you need to enter inside the tomb of Tutankhamun, the most famous Pharaoh of them all!
Posing at the entrance of the famous tomb.
A brief introduction to the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb.
Just over a century ago, in 1922, British archaeologist Howard Carter made one of the greatest historical discoveries as he uncovered the tomb of Tutankhamun. Our understanding of Ancient Egypt was changed forever, as Carter’s findings offered key insights into the burial processes, religious beliefs and methods of warfare from thousands of years ago.
The famous Pharaoh’s tomb was near-intact when it was uncovered in the Valley of the Kings, with an abundance of treasure, some shrines, and most importantly, the mummy of King Tut, which was buried in his gold coffin.
The inside of Tutankhamun’s tomb was a rare discovery, as it was one of the very few tombs which hadn’t been looted thousands of years ago. The tomb was found under hundreds of thousands of tons of rocks in the hillside, which protected its location for so long.
King Tut has had a lasting influence on the world, as the popularity of ancient Egypt has spread globally over the last century. Over 5000 of his original treasures and artefacts will be the focal point of the new Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo, as the ‘Tutmania’ continues long into the future.
Why was Tutankhamun not buried in a pyramid?
It is thought that pyramids were no longer popular by his time as pharaoh in the 18th Dynasty, around 1300 BCE.
The security around pyramids was no longer sufficient to keep out robbers and looters.
There wasn’t as much importance placed on pharoahs during his time, therefore, the labour force was not so willing to spend years of toil working for a mere man, who was no longer considered ‘godly’.
Ticket information for Tutankhamun tomb visit.
Visiting Tutankhamun's tomb - practical information.
Tutankhamun’s tomb visit is an additional activity during your experience of the Valley of the Kings, therefore, you should be aware of the additional costs involved, along with the process of acquiring the ticket.
The Tomb of Tutankhamun tickets can be purchased at the main ticket office.
The Valley of the Kings costs:
As of Autumn 2023 when I visited, the current pricing for the Valley of the Kings and additional tombs are:
Main entrance ticket for Valley of the Kings - EGP 265 (approx £7).
Tutankhamun’s tomb - EGP 300 (approx £8) per person.
Ramesses V & VI tomb - EGP 100 (approx £2.65) per person.
Seti I tomb - EGP 1,000 (approx £26.50) per person.
What is a Luxor Pass?
The ancient city of Luxor is abundant with historical highlights, therefore, for some tourists purchasing a Luxor pass is the most efficient way of visiting multiple sites over a short trip.
The Luxor pass is valid for 5 days and gives you ‘skip the line’ privileges.
The pass is one ticket which covers all the Egyptian landmarks across the West Bank and East Bank barring the special tombs of ‘Seti I’ in the Valley of the Kings, and ‘Queen Neferteri’ in the Valley of the Queens, both of which are the most well-preserved tombs across the burial sites.
The tomb of Tutankhamun is included in the Luxor pass along with:
West Bank:
The Valley of the Kings (excluding Seti I).
The Valley of the Queens (excluding Queen Nefertari).
Ramesseum.
East Bank:
Luxor Museum.
Tombs of the Nobles.
Howard Carter House.
You can purchase a Luxor pass at the ticket office at the Karnak Temple & Valley of the Kings.
The Valley of the Kings official tours:
Luxor is an awesome city with many highlights, so here are a few recommended tours for you:
Luxor: Morning Hot Air Balloon Ride.
Catching a birds eye view of Luxor's famous archaeological sites at sunrise is an awesome way to experience the majestic history that covers both the West and East Banks of the Nile. You will enjoy a wonderful narration of the history of ancient Egypt while you glide through the sky in a mesmerising way.
Luxor: Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple Day Tour.
A full guided day around the Valley of the Kings, Colossi of Memnon, and Temple of Hatshepsut gives you plenty of time to fully explore the sites with both the guided tour, and on your own. Booking your tour in advance is a great way to secure a hassle free trip in Luxor.
Luxor: Full or Half-Day East and West Bank Tours.
Just having a quick trip to Luxor? This option enables you to see the highlights on both the West Bank and East Bank in one day.
You will visited some awesome temples and tombs - that is guaranteed!
You will have a tour guide to explain the history at each site, and transport between the different locations.
I would not recommend you do a full West Bank tour if you are travelling to Luxor by night train like I did. The East Bank is a better option if you are tired from a sleepless night!
The Valley of the Kings opening times:
The ancient necropolis is open all year round from 6am until 5pm daily.
The ticket office closes at 4pm, and you should expect to spend two/three hours on site depending on how many tombs you plan to visit.
Information board about the history of the tomb of Tutankhamun.
How to get to the tomb of Tutankhamun.
Once you enter the necropolis after purchasing your tickets, you will be directed to a taftaf (for a small additional charge), which will drive you up the road into the burial ground area.
You will be dropped off at a security point, where you have to scan your tickets before entering the main area of the tombs. There are sign posts dotted around with directions to the different tombs.
The tomb of Tutankhamun is easy to find, as it is opposite the rest area (see map below) where visitors can grab refreshments, or take a break from the sweltering heat.
The tomb is guarded by vendors who will check your tickets and direct you down the stairs into the burial chamber.
Check out this King Tut tomb map.
Map of the Valley of the Kings Necropolis showing King Tut’s tomb location.
Riding the taftaf from the entrance of the Valley of the Kings to the tombs.
Rocks above a tomb shaped like a mummy.
How to get to the Valley of the Kings.
The Valley of the Kings is located on the West Bank of Luxor, which makes it a longer journey than the East Bank landmarks. Some options are:
Official tour bus.
Due to the amount of landmarks to visit in Luxor, there is an abundance of options for daily tours. Many hotels and local offices will help you with this, however, the best way to secure a reasonable fixed cost is to book in advance here.
Taxi.
Taxis are very popular in Luxor, and plentiful. You will see them pass by trying to catch your attention for a fare. Be warned though, there are no fixed costs for taxis, therefore, it will take some haggling to secure a price you are happy with. You can also expect your taxi driver to suggest multiple tours over the day, with him waiting for you at each place. This is a convenient method if you are in a hurry, and can secure a good deal.
Cycling.
If you are visiting Luxor on a slower style trip, a great activity is to cycle to Valley of the Kings. This is better suited for months outside of the summer months, as it gets unbearably hot during these months.
Map showing the location of the Valley of the Kings on the West Bank of Luxor.
Tutankhamun tomb photos.
My experience visiting the tomb of Tutankhamun.
Tutankhamun has piqued my curiosity as a historical character ever since I was in primary school.
The history lessons on ancient Egypt would create a vivid imagined story of what it must be like to be buried in a tomb full of treasure for all of eternity.
Here I was… the imagination was about to turn to reality…. As I was about to embark on a history lesson that I will remember forever. The opportunity to come face to face with the mummy of the famous pharaoh.
After visiting the three tombs included in the main entrance ticket for the Valley of the Kings, it was time for the members of the group to head off on our chosen journeys, which was defined by the additional tickets we purchased.
As I walked over to the tomb of Tutankhamun, I made sure that I took my time to fully immerse in the ancient times, by reading all of the information boards at the entrance of KV62 (Tut’s tomb number).
The famous tomb is restricted to a maximum of ten visitors at one time, which helps to preserve the original findings inside. This creates some space inside to enjoy the vibrantly decorated burial chamber. I was lucky that I had 5 minutes in solitude with his mummy, as I imagined the grand burial ceremony, how the tomb would have looked when it was first discovered with the abundance of treasure that Howard Carter found during the ten year excavation project.
This ten minute travel experience inside the tomb of Tutankhamun was a moment that will live long in my memory!
I had visited the fascinating Mummification Museum prior to visiting Valley of the Kings, which made it even better looking at Tut’s mummy, as I had an understanding of the mummification process that he went through.
Steps leading down into King Tut’s tomb.
King Tut’s sarcophagus inside his tomb
Coming face to face with the mummy of Tutankhamun.
It goes without saying that visiting a well-preserved 3300 year old mummy is a bucket list activity!
Although there is a glass box protecting King Tut, you can still manage to get a close up view of the intricate details of his skull and face. His mummy still looks juicy despite being so old, which gives you an idea how well they preserved royalty.
You are guaranteed a spectacular Instagram selfie!
The 3300 year old mummy of King Tutankhamun.
King Tutankhamun’s dedicated room in the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities in Cairo.
Although you have the opportunity to see King Tut’s mummy in his tomb, along with his original sarcophagus, and original decorations, the treasure which was found during his excavation has been moved.
A large quantity of his treasure, including the famous gold mask which he was found wearing, can be seen at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.
You will find King Tut’s room upstairs in the famous museum, but unfortunately, you are not allowed to take photos, so make sure you live in the moment and fully appreciate the historical gems located in the room.
A trip to the famous museum in Tahrir Square makes for a great addition to your Cairo itinerary.
Visiting the awesome tombs are one main reasons people visit Egypt, so If you want to visit more tombs while in Cairo, then heading to Saqqara Necropolis just south of the Egyptian capital is a great option!
The room dedicated to King Tut in the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities in Cairo.
Have you considered visiting Egypt as a solo traveller?
Egypt is a mystery to many people around the world.
It is a nation with many questions, but somehow, its historical landmarks have some mind-blowing answers, which makes it a must-visit destination.
Solo travel is a rewarding way of exploring Egypt whether it is the capital, or the beautiful southern cities.
You can enjoy moments of solitude amongst the fascinating sites, while also having the opportunity to meet like minded visitors, who all share the objective of uncovering some mysteries from an ancient world, which the more you discover, the more unfathomable they become!
And where better to ride a camel, than the Great Pyramids of Giza?
This solo guide has all the information you need to choose the right destinations, and to plan your perfect Egyptian trip!
Disclosure: I sometimes use affiliate marketing. This will not cost you anything, but helps with my travel costs. I only recommend companies I use myself.