How long should I plan for a visit to the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut?

Plan 45–75 minutes for the mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahari. Deir el-Bahari sits on the Luxor West Bank within the UNESCO Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis property. Our Egyptologists typically allow time for the three terraces, the reliefs, and short interpretation; if combined with the Valley of the Kings or other West Bank sites, allow a half day.

Is the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut wheelchair accessible?

The site has terraces reached by ramps and steps; full wheelchair access is limited. The lower terrace and immediate approach are easier for wheelchairs, but upper terraces include steep ramps and uneven ancient stone. We can arrange closer vehicle drop-offs and staff assistance, yet some viewpoints remain inaccessible to standard wheelchairs.

Can I take photographs and use a tripod at Deir el-Bahari?

Photography for personal use is generally permitted; tripods and commercial filming usually require a permit. Flash is sometimes restricted near painted reliefs and sensitive surfaces. If you need a tripod or plan professional filming, we can secure the necessary permissions in advance.

Should I buy tickets in advance or at the site for Hatshepsut Temple?

You can buy tickets at the site, but during high season we recommend booking in advance. Site entrance fees are usually included when we arrange a guided visit; premium or special-access areas (if offered) may carry extra charges. Booking ahead guarantees preferred time slots and avoids long queues.

What should I wear and bring for a visit to the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut?

Wear sun-protective clothing, sturdy shoes, and modest dress for visiting Egyptian temples. Bring a hat, sunscreen, plenty of water, and sunglasses; there is limited shade at midday and walking is on uneven stone. Temples expect shoulders and knees to be covered for respectful entry.

When is the best time of day to visit Deir el-Bahari?

Early morning or late afternoon are best to avoid heat and the largest crowds. We schedule many visits at first light for cooler temperatures and better lighting on Hatshepsut’s terraces; midday brings strong sun and limited shade. Unlike large group bus circuits, we aim to reduce waiting and crowding on the terraces.

Attraction Luxor

Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut (Deir el‑Bahari), Luxor

At a glance

Departs: Daily

The short answer

Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut Entry Ticket is a 1-day attraction ticket covering the terraced temple, chapels, and courtyards at Deir el-Bahari in Luxor, arranged through Discovery Tours Egypt.

Snapshot

Good to know

Destinations: Luxor

Best time to go

The most comfortable months are October to April, when daytime temperatures in Luxor are generally milder and sightseeing is easier. From May to September, heat can be intense, so an early morning visit is best. Religious holidays and peak winter travel periods can increase crowds, and Ramadan may affect some local services and opening patterns.

02 Overview

A first look

Deir el‑Bahari is the mortuary temple commissioned by Pharaoh Hatshepsut and designed by Senenmut, built in the 15th century BCE. It sits on Luxor’s West Bank opposite the Valley of the Kings and is part of the Ancient Thebes UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Background

The facts

The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari is one of the best-known monuments on Luxor’s West Bank. It was built in the 18th Dynasty for Pharaoh Hatshepsut, who ruled in the 15th century BCE, and its terraced layout was designed against the limestone cliffs of Deir el-Bahari. The complex is important for understanding royal mortuary architecture in New Kingdom Egypt and for its surviving reliefs, chapels, and statuary.

Admission grants access to the temple terraces, inner courts, chapels, and the main visitor areas open to the public. Visitors can see carved scenes associated with Hatshepsut’s reign, including depictions of the expedition to Punt, along with remains set within the original cliffside setting. Some parts of the ancient complex are not open to general admission, and access conditions can change according to conservation work.

Opening hours vary seasonally, so the official site or ticket gate should be checked before visiting. Early morning is usually the most practical time, both for lower temperatures and lighter crowd levels, especially in the hotter months from May to September. The site lies on the West Bank of Luxor, close to other major monuments such as the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Medinet Habu.

Suited to

Is this for you?

Yes, if

This ticket suits independent travelers, history-focused visitors, and photographers who want time to study one of Egypt’s most distinctive New Kingdom monuments. It is also appropriate for families with older children and adults who are comfortable with walking on uneven ground and spending time outdoors in warm conditions.

What lingers

01 Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari – terraces by Senenmut displaying Punt expedition and divine birth relief cycles.
02 Located on Luxor's West Bank, immediately below limestone cliffs and opposite the Valley of the Kings area.
03 Our Egyptologists interpret the porticoes' hieroglyphic scenes; we recommend 45–60 minutes for a focused visit.
04 Unlike cruise-ship shore excursions, we schedule early-morning visits to Hatshepsut to avoid coach crowds and heat.
05 Limited shade on the terraces and uneven ancient stone steps – expect short stair climbs and an uphill return.

The fine print

What's included – and what isn't

Included

Entry ticket to the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut (Deir el-Bahari), delivered by email as a PDF

Not included

Professional Egyptologist guide (book separately if required)
Transport to and from the site
Meals and drinks
Photography permit where applicable; check rules at the entrance
Pyramid or tomb interior entrance fees not listed as included

Asked & answered

Frequent questions

01 How long should I plan for a visit to the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut?

Plan 45–75 minutes for the mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahari. Deir el-Bahari sits on the Luxor West Bank within the UNESCO Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis property. Our Egyptologists typically allow time for the three terraces, the reliefs, and short interpretation; if combined with the Valley of the Kings or other West Bank sites, allow a half day.
02 Is the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut wheelchair accessible?

The site has terraces reached by ramps and steps; full wheelchair access is limited. The lower terrace and immediate approach are easier for wheelchairs, but upper terraces include steep ramps and uneven ancient stone. We can arrange closer vehicle drop-offs and staff assistance, yet some viewpoints remain inaccessible to standard wheelchairs.
03 Can I take photographs and use a tripod at Deir el-Bahari?

Photography for personal use is generally permitted; tripods and commercial filming usually require a permit. Flash is sometimes restricted near painted reliefs and sensitive surfaces. If you need a tripod or plan professional filming, we can secure the necessary permissions in advance.
04 Should I buy tickets in advance or at the site for Hatshepsut Temple?

You can buy tickets at the site, but during high season we recommend booking in advance. Site entrance fees are usually included when we arrange a guided visit; premium or special-access areas (if offered) may carry extra charges. Booking ahead guarantees preferred time slots and avoids long queues.
05 What should I wear and bring for a visit to the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut?

Wear sun-protective clothing, sturdy shoes, and modest dress for visiting Egyptian temples. Bring a hat, sunscreen, plenty of water, and sunglasses; there is limited shade at midday and walking is on uneven stone. Temples expect shoulders and knees to be covered for respectful entry.
06 When is the best time of day to visit Deir el-Bahari?

Early morning or late afternoon are best to avoid heat and the largest crowds. We schedule many visits at first light for cooler temperatures and better lighting on Hatshepsut’s terraces; midday brings strong sun and limited shade. Unlike large group bus circuits, we aim to reduce waiting and crowding on the terraces.

Last updated 18 May 2026 Product ID: TKT-LUX-328369

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