Overview
Karnak Temple is a vast temple complex in Luxor, Egypt, dedicated to the Theban triad of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. It is one of the largest ancient religious sites in the world and a significant example of ancient Egyptian architecture.
Karnak Temple is a crucial religious and historical site, showcasing the grandeur of ancient Egyptian civilization and its religious beliefs.
Location
Address
Luxor City, Luxor
Neighborhood: East Bank of the Nile
Coordinates
25.716700, 32.633300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
October to April
Best Time of Day
Early morning
Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Warm and pleasant
- • Blooming gardens
- • Clear skies
summer
Hot and dry
- • Extended evening hours
autumn
Mild and comfortable
- • Cooler temperatures
- • Clear skies
winter
Cool and pleasant
- • Holiday decorations
- • Cooler temperatures
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Bring water and sunscreen
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate (considerable walking)
- • Hydration essential
- • Sun protection needed
Medical facilities: First aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash (Egyptian pounds), Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
Currency
Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered), Comfortable walking shoes, Closed-toe shoes recommended, Revealing clothing, Beachwear
Booking Tips
- • At least a week in advance
- • Official website or trusted tour operators
- • 48 hours in advance for full refund
- • Available for online bookings
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Karnak Temple Guide
Size: 60 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Historical information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Main courtyard
Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafeteria
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Luxor International Airport (LXR)
Distance: 10 km
Travel Time: 20 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 3 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Karnak Temple is a symbol of ancient Egyptian heritage and a source of national pride
Historical Significance: It was the most important religious site in ancient Egypt for over 2,000 years
Insider Tips
- The best views of the temple are from the top of the pylons
- Visit the temple at sunset for a magical experience
- The local market near the temple offers great souvenirs
Local Recommendations
- • Try local Egyptian food at nearby cafes
- • Hire a local guide for a more personalized experience
- • Visit the nearby Luxor Temple in the evening for a Sound and Light Show
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Arabic, English, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Great Hypostyle Hall
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon
Tips: Capture the towering columns from a low angle
Result: Impressive shots of ancient architecture
Avenue of Sphinxes
Best Time: Sunset
Tips: Use the setting sun for dramatic backlighting
Result: Stunning silhouettes of sphinxes
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Luxor Temple
Distance: 2 km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Historical Site
Luxor Museum
Distance: 3 km
Walking: 35 min
Type: Museum
Valley of the Kings
Distance: 7 km
Walking: Not walkable
Type: Historical Site
Reviews
Based on 1,500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book tickets online to skip the line"
- "Visit early in the morning for the best experience"
- "Hire a guide to learn more about the temple's history"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
Karnak & Luxor Temples
Luxor Day Tour: Kings Valley & Karnak & Luxor & Hatshepsut Temple
Luxor East Bank Private Tour: Karnak Temple - Luxor Temple
Half Day Luxor East Bank Karnak and Luxor Temples
Half day trip to East bank of Luxor ( Karnak and Luxor temples)
Private Full Day Tour: Dendera & Abydos Temples from Luxor
Private Luxor Day tour from Cairo by Flight
Egypt Nile Cruise Luxor to Aswan
Tour of the East Bank in Luxor
Luxor Museum and Karnak Sound and Light Show
Luxor to Denderah Half Day Private Tour: Hathor Temple at Denderah
Private Tour from Luxor Airport to the Best Monuments of Luxor
Luxor West Bank Group Tour: Valley of the Kings–Hatshepsut Temple–Memnon Colossi
Private Tour: Luxor West Bank, Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple, Memnon
Tour to Dendera and Abydos Temples from Luxor
Full Day Luxor Tour from Hurghada
Luxor Archaeology Tour: Valley of the Kings, Karnak, Luxor Temples & More
Private Luxor East Bank's Best Sights from Luxor
Private 2-Day Luxor Highlights Tour
Day Tour to Luxor from Cairo by Flight
Luxor Full Day Tour Inc. Temples Balloon, Karnak sound-light show
Luxor Day tour from Cairo by Flight
4 Days Cairo & Luxor
Overnight Tour to Luxor from Cairo by Flight
Quick Info
Available Tours
3,834
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
1,500
Adult Entry
$15