Ramesseum (Mortuary Temple of Ramses II), Luxor West Bank
At a glance
- Departs
- Daily
The short answer
Ramesseum Entry Ticket is a 1-day admission covering the Mortuary Temple of Ramses II in Luxor’s West Bank, arranged through Discovery Tours Egypt.
- Archaeology & history
- Cultural
Snapshot
Good to know
- Destinations
- Luxor
Best time to go
The most comfortable months to visit Luxor are generally October to April, when daytime temperatures are milder and site visits are easier in the open sun. Summer months can be very hot, often above 40°C, so early morning visits are preferable. During Ramadan and major public holidays, operating hours and visitor flow can change, so confirm timings in advance.
02Overview
A first look
The Ramesseum sits on the Theban Necropolis, part of the Ancient Thebes UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visits typically last 45–75 minutes; limited shade and uneven floors make morning or late-afternoon visits more comfortable.
Background
The facts
The Ramesseum is the mortuary temple of Ramses II, built on Luxor’s West Bank during Egypt’s New Kingdom, with construction beginning in the 13th century BCE. It was designed as a memorial temple for royal cult rituals and state ceremonies, and it is known today for its ruined pylon, columned halls, courtyards, and sculpted wall scenes.
The site is especially associated with the fallen seated colossus of Ramses II, originally carved at around 17 meters high, and with reliefs that record the Battle of Kadesh, one of the best-known royal military narratives in ancient Egyptian art. Visitors can also see the remains of pillared spaces and decorative stonework that help illustrate the temple’s original layout.
This entry ticket grants access to the open archaeological area and the surviving temple remains. It does not include premium tombs or any separately restricted areas that may require additional permission elsewhere on the West Bank.
Opening hours and last admission can change seasonally, so visitors should verify the current schedule before arrival and check the entrance for the latest photography policy. The Ramesseum is typically less crowded than larger East Bank temple complexes, which can make close viewing and photography easier during quieter periods.
Suited to
Is this for you?
Yes, if
- This entry ticket is suitable for independent travelers, history enthusiasts, and photographers who want time to study New Kingdom temple remains at their own pace. It also suits visitors who prefer a quieter archaeological site and are comfortable walking on uneven ground in warm weather.
What lingers
- 01Ramesseum on Luxor's West Bank – Ramses II mortuary temple with fallen colossus and Battle of Kadesh reliefs.
- 02Standard site entrance fee included; premium tombs and pyramid interiors (e.g., Tutankhamun) are excluded from this ticket.
- 03As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we provide a private Egyptologist and driver; visits typically last 45–60 minutes.
- 04Limited shade and uneven ancient stone underfoot; bring sun protection, water, and sturdy walking shoes for the site.
- 05Compared with East Bank temples, Ramesseum has fewer crowds and closer vantage points of Ramses II's colossus for photographs.
The fine print
What's included – and what isn't
Included
- Entry ticket to the Ramesseum (Mortuary Temple of Ramses II)
Not included
- Professional guide (book separately if required)
- Transport to and from the site
- Meals and personal expenses
- Photography permit if specifically required by the site
- Printing of the ticket (tickets are emailed as a PDF; some venues may require a printed copy)
Asked & answered
Frequent questions
01How long should I plan for a visit to the Ramesseum?
Plan 45–60 minutes for a standard visit to the Ramesseum on Luxor's West Bank. We usually pair it with Deir el-Medina or Medinet Habu for a coherent half-day West Bank circuit; we avoid running large coach groups at the Ramesseum. Allow 90 minutes if you want extended photography or close study of the fallen colossus and reliefs.02Are entrance tickets to the Ramesseum included?
Standard site entrance fees for the Ramesseum are included with this attraction ticket. Extra local charges (special permits, commercial photography fees) are rare but possible; we confirm any additional fees when we issue your voucher. This site does not have pyramid interiors or premium tombs that require separate tickets.03Is the Ramesseum wheelchair accessible?
Wheelchair access at the Ramesseum is limited due to uneven stone surfaces and steps. The main courtyard is compacted earth with broken stone and no continuous paved routes; ramps are generally absent. Vehicle drop-off at the site's gate is usually possible, and we can arrange on-site assistance if you tell us your exact needs in advance.04What should I bring and wear to visit the Ramesseum?
Bring sun protection, sturdy walking shoes, a hat, water, and dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered. Shade is limited at midday, so SPF 30+ sunscreen and sunglasses are essential. A light scarf helps with dust and modesty for nearby religious sites; early-morning visits reduce heat exposure and harsh light for photography.05Are guided tours or Egyptologists available at the Ramesseum?
Yes – our private Egyptologists can lead the Ramesseum visit with 45–60 minutes of focused commentary. They explain the Battle of Kadesh reliefs, the fallen statue of Ramses II, and the temple's architectural phases. Compared with self-guided visits, a guided commentary clarifies inscriptions and archaeological context; tell us if you want extra time for photography or epigraphy.06When is the best time of day to visit the Ramesseum?
Early morning is best for cooler temperatures and softer light for photography. Sites typically open around sunrise and close at sunset; hours vary seasonally and during Ramadan and public holidays, so we confirm local opening times. Midday offers limited shade and stronger light, while late afternoon may coincide with other West Bank circuits.
Product ID: TKT-LUX-505376
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