The first time I went to Luxor, the Hatshepsut Temple left me speechless. It’s so different from any other site in Egypt. Just imagine the building against these dramatic rock cliffs in Deir el-Bahari, near the Valley of the Kings. That time, its grandeur blew me away; it had this mystical aura, you know? This temple isn’t just about the incredible architecture and the story of Queen Hatshepsut, one of the most potent female pharaohs in Egyptian history. She was seriously powerful, her temple felt like a statement of power and legitimacy, and she felt close to the gods.
It’s located on the West Bank of the Nile, and this three-tiered complex just blends right in with the cliffs behind it. Most temples in Egypt are built on flat land, but this one’s different, like it was carved straight out of the limestone. The way she chose this location, I think, really shows her power. It’s like she’s saying, ‘I’m part of this magnificent nature’.
For anyone planning a trip to Egypt and wanting to see the temples in Luxor, this place is a must-see. Everything from the symbolic reliefs to its strategic design tells the story of Hatshepsut’s political genius and spiritual ambition. Here, we can see firsthand the stories of her divine birth, the gods’ favor, and her royal lineage carved in stone. Just imagine she dared to take on that role in a time dominated by men. So cool!
Whether you’re a huge history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just ticking off the best things to do in Luxor, this temple will give you an experience you’ll never forget.
Where to Stay in Luxor, Egypt
Choosing where to stay in Luxor is as vital as choosing which temples to see. Luxor is divided into two banks: the East Bank (more urban, lots of restaurants and shops) and the West Bank (quieter, closer to many archaeological sites like the Hatshepsut Temple).
Luxury Accommodations:
Sofitel Winter Palace: A historic and luxurious hotel on the East Bank, just a short ferry ride to the West. When I saw this hotel, its architecture was like a fairytale palace.
Al Moudira Hotel: A hidden gem near the West Bank with Arabesque architecture and a serene setting. Perfect for travelers wanting peace and proximity to the sites. If I wanted peace and inspiration, I might choose this one.
Mid-Range Picks:
Steigenberger Achti Resort: Offers Nile views and comfort near Luxor Temple.
Pyramisa Isis Luxor: Affordable, central, and within walking distance of the ferry dock that crosses to the West Bank. It seems like a practical choice if you want easy access to everything.
To get to the Luxor temples easily, consider staying on the East Bank and using the local ferry or private drivers to reach the temple sites.
Remember, mornings in Luxor start early. Staying near the Nile ensures you can get to Hatshepsut Temple right after sunrise, before it gets crowded and hot. That’s why most tours start before 8 AM. I agree; the air is still cool in the morning, and the place isn’t too hot yet.
By planning your stay strategically, you can make the most of your trip, avoid drama with delays, and soak up more history per hour.
The History of the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut
The Hatshepsut Temple wasn’t just built for worship—it was built to leave a legacy. Commissioned by Queen Hatshepsut during her reign from 1479 to 1458 BC, the goal was to immortalize her power and connection to the gods, especially Amun. I think she was a visionary.
She ruled during Egypt’s prosperous 18th Dynasty. She dared to be different by taking on a male pharaoh’s full titles and regalia, including the false beard that male rulers usually wore. It’s like she was saying, ‘I can do this too!
Notable Historical Features:
Architectural Breakthroughs: Unlike other mortuary temples, it was built in a multi-terrace format and used to have lush gardens (too bad they’re gone now). I bet those gardens were beautiful back then, like an oasis in the desert.
Chapel of Hathor: Celebrates the goddess of love, music, and motherhood. I like the depictions of Hathor, who is both gentle and firm.
Chapel of Anubis: Honors the god of mummification and the afterlife.
Narratives in Stone: The walls are full of carvings showing her divine birth, military expeditions, and trading voyages to Punt. I’m curious to see those carvings of the Punt voyages; the story must be fascinating.
Legacy Attempts Erased: Her stepson, Thutmose III, tried to erase her from history by defacing statues and inscriptions. Thankfully, 19th-century archaeologists rediscovered the site, and recent restorations by Polish-Egyptian teams have brought it back to life. I admire the work of those persistent archaeologists.
Every brick in the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut has a story to tell—stories of ambition, belief, and a woman who ruled like a god.
Visiting the Hatshepsut Temple (Deir el-Bahari)
Visiting the Hatshepsut Temple in Luxor is like stepping into a world of architectural genius and royal propaganda. The location alone—nestled against 300-meter cliffs—is fantastic. When I first saw it from a distance, I felt so small compared to its grandeur.
What You’ll See:
Three Terraces: Long ramps connected them, and they used to be filled with sphinxes and gardens. I can imagine how grand this place was, with rows of statues and green plants.
Sculptures of Hatshepsut: Often shown in male attire, reinforcing her role as pharaoh.
Colorful Reliefs: The hieroglyphs are so vibrant, depicting trade missions, divine birth, and offerings to the gods. I love seeing the colors in the reliefs, like looking at ancient comics.
Chapel of Hathor and Anubis: Essential for understanding her divine legitimization.
Scarab Beetles & Solar Symbols: Embedded spiritual motifs related to rebirth and eternity.
Visit Duration & Tips:
Time Needed: About 1 to 1.5 hours to see everything thoroughly.
Best Time: Early morning (6: 00–8: 00 AM) or just before closing. In my experience, that’s the best time; the air is still fresh, and the light is great for photos.
Combine Sites: You can visit the Valley of the Kings, Colossi of Memnon, or Medinet Habu.
The panoramic views from the upper terrace of Hatshepsut Temple in Luxor are incredible; you can see the Theban Necropolis stretching out, like you’re in the heart of ancient Egypt. I was just in awe looking at the view at that time.t.
Hours & Entrance Fees
It’s essential to know the practical info so your visit goes smoothly.
Opening Hours:
Daily: 6: 00 AM – 5: 00 PM
Entrance Fees (as of 2025):
Adults: 140 EGP
Students: 70 EGP (with valid ID)
Shuttle Bus: 2 EGP from the ticket gate to the site
Photography Policy:
Allowed: Phones and regular cameras
Not Allowed: Flash
The Luxor Pass:
Covers access to multiple West Bank sites, including Hatshepsut Temple in Luxor.
More cost-effective if you want to see a lot of places.
This info helps so you’re not surprised when you get there and can just focus on enjoying the history. Initially, I was a little confused about the shuttle bus, so this info is essential.
How to Get to Hatshepsut Temple Luxor
The Hatshepsut Temple in Luxor is on the West Bank of the Nile. Getting there from Cairo or Luxor is straightforward and requires some planning.
From Cairo to Luxor:
By Plane: 1 hour; average fare around $90.
By Train: 9 hours; budget option (~ $10), comfortable sleeper options are also available.
Local Transport in Luxor:
Private Driver: Easily arranged through hotels.
Taxi: Readily available, but negotiate the price first. I usually do that when I take a cab there, to avoid overpaying.
Ferry Crossing: The East to West Bank ferry has cheap views. Taking this ferry is fun, especially in the late afternoon.
Caution: Expect pushy sales pitches from local ferry drivers. Be firm and clear about pricing and destination. I was once offered an unreasonable price, so you have to be careful.
Thinking about your transportation beforehand ensures you arrive at the Hatshepsut Temple in Luxor feeling fresh and ready to explore.
Best Hatshepsut Temple Tours
Guided tours elevate your visit to Hatshepsut Temple in Luxor, offering in-depth context and smooth logistics.
Tour Types:
Full-Day West Bank: Includes the Valley of the Kings, Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, and Colossi of Memnon. It seems like a good option if you want to see everything without worrying about the details.
Half-Day Morning Tour: Beat the crowds and the sun—a good idea to avoid the heat.
Combo Tours: Full-day East + West Bank historical immersion, to get the complete picture.
Tour Benefits:
Expert historical interpretation.
No hassle with bargaining.
Air-conditioned transport.
Pro Tip:
Choose reputable companies with high TripAdvisor ratings.
Look for options offering sunrise access. The photos must be excellent, and the air is so lovely.
A tour of Hatshepsut Temple in Luxor with a guide gives you cultural depth beyond what signs and maps offer. I took a tour once, and I learned so much new information.
FAQ’s
Is the Hatshepsut Temple worth visiting? In my opinion, absolutely! It’s one of the best in Luxor.”
How long should I spend at the temple? About 1 to 1.5 hours.
Can I take photos inside the temple? Yes, but please don’t use flash, it isn’t suitable for the reliefs.
What’s the best time of year to visit Luxor? October through March, when the temperatures are cooler. I agree, that’s a great time to go sightseeing all day.
Are guides required to visit the temple? No, but recommended to better understand the history. If you’re really into historical details, a guide is essential.
Is it wheelchair accessible? Some parts are, but the ramps and terraces have uneven steps.
Can I visit without a tour group? Yes, solo visits are common and easy to arrange. I’ve seen quite a few travelers enjoying it on their own there.
Are there restrooms at the site? Yes, near the shuttle bus drop-off. The restrooms were reasonably clean, as I recall.
Is there food nearby? Small snack stands are near the entrance, but options are limited. You might want to bring your snacks if you get hungry between meals.
What’s nearby to visit after the temple? Valley of the Kings, Medinet Habu, and Colossi of Memnon. Don’t forget to stop by those places, too if you have time.
Larry Overby is a seasoned journalist, meticulous editor, and passionate travel advisor with over a decade of experience in storytelling across continents. Whether reporting from bustling city streets or editing from a quiet mountain lodge, Larry brings authenticity, insight, and wanderlust to everything he writes and edits.
