While the East Bank of Luxor represents life and the rising sun, the West Bank is the legendary realm of the afterlife. Home to the most famous archaeological sites in the world, this rugged desert landscape hides the golden treasures and brilliantly painted tombs of Egypt’s greatest Pharaohs.
Whether you are a casual traveler or a hardcore history buff, here are the absolute must-see ancient wonders on Luxor's West Bank.
1. The Valley of the Kings (Wadi al-Muluk)
The undeniable star attraction of the West Bank. This hidden, heavily guarded desert valley contains over 60 royal tombs, including those of Ramses II, Seti I, and the world-famous boy king, Tutankhamun. Today, visitors can also experience advanced 3D scanning displays at the visitor center that explain the intricate carvings and astronomical ceilings without touching the fragile ancient walls.
2. The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut
Rising dramatically out of the desert plain in a series of grand, colonnaded terraces, this temple dedicated to Egypt's most powerful female Pharaoh is a true masterpiece of architectural symmetry. Its detailed reliefs tell the epic story of her divine birth and her famous trading expedition to the mysterious Land of Punt.
3. The Valley of the Queens & Medinet Habu
Valley of the Queens: Do not miss the spectacular Tomb of Queen Nefertari. It is widely considered the most beautiful tomb in all of Egypt due to its incredibly preserved, vibrant, and detailed painted colors.
Medinet Habu: The mortuary temple of Ramses III. It is renowned for its massive pylon gates and deep-cut stone reliefs that dramatically depict great naval battles against the mysterious "Sea Peoples."
4. The Colossi of Memnon
These two towering, faceless stone statues are usually the first ancient wonders you will see upon arriving at the West Bank. Standing at 18 meters high, they are all that remains of the once-massive mortuary temple of Amenhotep III, having stood guard over the Theban Necropolis for thousands of years.
5. The Nobleman’s Tombs & Deir el-Medina
For a fascinating glimpse into the everyday life of ancient Egyptians, visit Deir el-Medina, the ancient village of the artisans and craftsmen who actually built and decorated the royal tombs. Their own tombs are smaller but filled with charming, highly colorful scenes of farming, dancing, fishing, and family life.
Book Your West Bank Luxor Tour with Romantic Travel
Ready to unlock the secrets of the Pharaohs? Let the local experts at Romantic Travel handle your Luxor itinerary. We provide private, air-conditioned transport across the West Bank and highly knowledgeable Egyptologist guides who will bring the City of the Dead to life.
