Explore Egypt’s top 5 ancient temples in Luxor and Aswan, from Karnak to Abu Simbel, and why these historic wonders should be on your travel bucket list.
- Karnak Temple, Luxor
The Karnak Temple Complex stands as one of the largest religious structures ever built, and today, it remains one of Egypt’s most visited landmarks. Spanning over 247 acres, it includes temples, pylons, chapels, and obelisks — with the awe-inspiring Hypostyle Hall at its heart, showcasing 134 towering columns. Karnak offers a glimpse into Egypt’s spiritual and political power during the New Kingdom.
- Temple of Hatshepsut, Luxor
Tucked beneath the dramatic cliffs of Deir el-Bahari, this temple’s dedicated to the iconic female pharaoh Hatshepsut. The temple consists of three levels, each designed for a specific purpose. The first level features a terrace, that was once filled with flora and exotic trees. The second level features carvings that depict the birth of Hatshepsut, as well as chapels dedicated to the gods. The third level featured a courtyard, as well as several chapels.
- Luxor Temple, Luxor
This temple was built in 1400 BC, and it played a central role in the annual Opet Festival, a significant religious festival in the New Kingdom’s culture. The temple features unique carvings of hieroglyphs, as well as impressive structural designs. In ancient times, an avenue of sphinxes once connected the Luxor Temple with the Karnak Temple.
You can visit these three temples, and more, on our “Cairo to Luxor” adventure!
- Philae Temple, Aswan
The Philae Temple sits on Agilkia Island in Aswan, surrounded by the Nile’s clear waters. Originally located on Philae Island, it was moved in the 1960s to save it from flooding caused by the Aswan High Dam. Philae is dedicated to Isis, goddess of magic and motherhood. It features well-preserved reliefs, tranquil views, and captivating stories carved into the stone , like the myth of Isis and Osiris.
5. Abu Simbel, Aswan
Carved directly into the cliffside, this monument features four colossal statues, guarding the entrance of the temple. The temple was built by Ramses II, and is illuminated by the sun twice a year, in an event known as the Sun Festival. The temple was dedicated to the gods Amun, Ra Horakhty, Ptah, and to Ramses II himself. Like the Philae Temple, the Abu Simbel temple was also relocated in the 1960s, to protect it from flooding. You can book a private tour to take you from Aswan to Abu Simbel, with a local guide and easy transfers.
Luxor and Aswan are filled with ancient history and architectural marvels. The temples in these two cities are a once in a lifetime experience, where you’ll be transported back in time.