Karnak Temples (includes Sacred Lake) – Luxor

The short answer

Karnak Temples Entry Ticket is a 1-day attraction ticket covering the Karnak Temple Complex, the Sacred Lake, and the Great Hypostyle Hall in Luxor, arranged through Discovery Tours Egypt.

• Cultural
• Archaeology & history

Snapshot

Good to know

Destinations

Luxor

Background

The facts

Suited to

Is this for you?

What lingers

• 01 Includes entry to Karnak Temples and the Sacred Lake; site part of Ancient Thebes UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• 02 Guided 90–120 minute circuit by our Egyptologists, not a self-guided entry common at peak times.
• 03 Karnak lies 2.5 km north of Luxor Temple; transfer by car is about ten minutes along the Corniche.
• 04 Visit early morning to avoid heat and crowds; many visitors arrive after 10:00 and temperatures climb rapidly.
• 05 Photography permitted across the complex; tripod and drone rules change–confirm restrictions with our guide on arrival.

The fine print

What's included – and what isn't

Asked & answered

Frequent questions

1. 01 Are tickets to Karnak Temple and the Sacred Lake included?

   Yes – the standard Karnak Temple entrance fee, including access to the Sacred Lake, is included with this ticket. Special experiences (for example the Sound and Light show, commercial filming permits or exclusive after-hours access) are not included unless requested. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator we handle ticketing and guide allocation as part of your booking.
2. 02 What are the opening hours for Karnak Temple?

   Karnak Temple's public opening hours vary seasonally; check confirmed times for your travel dates. The site typically opens at first light and closes late afternoon, but hours change during Ramadan and national holidays. We can often schedule early or late visits, where permitted, to avoid heat and cruise-ship crowds.
3. 03 Do you offer private guided visits or large coach tours to Karnak?

   We operate private, Egyptologist-led visits rather than large coach-group tours. Unlike coach-based day trips, our visits can start early or late to reduce crowds and allow more time at the Hypostyle Hall and the Sacred Lake. Our Egyptologists explain the Amun‑Re complex in context rather than rushing through the site.
4. 04 How long should I allow to visit Karnak Temple and the Sacred Lake?

   Allow 1.5–3 hours to see the main courtyards, the Hypostyle Hall and the Sacred Lake. A focused walk-through takes about 90 minutes; an in-depth, Egyptologist-led visit usually requires closer to three hours. Add extra time if you plan to visit Luxor Temple the same day or attend the Sound and Light show.
5. 05 Is Karnak Temple wheelchair accessible?

   Access is partial: the main approach and some courtyards are relatively level but many areas have uneven stone and steps. There are loose stones, sand and thresholds that restrict full wheelchair movement, and some inner zones remain difficult to access. We can plan a reduced-walking itinerary and a close drop-off, but full independent wheelchair access throughout the complex cannot be guaranteed.
6. 06 What should I wear and bring for a visit to Karnak Temple?

   Bring sun protection, plenty of water and comfortable walking shoes; cover shoulders and knees for temple modesty. The site has limited shade at midday and large exposed courtyards, so a wide-brim hat, sunscreen and a reusable water bottle are essential. Good-grip shoes help on uneven ancient stone and a light scarf is useful if you prefer extra sun protection or modesty.
7. 07 Can I take photographs at Karnak Temple and the Sacred Lake?

   Personal photography is generally permitted across Karnak Temple and the Sacred Lake; drone and commercial photography require permits. Tripods and professional equipment may need prior authorisation and flash use can be restricted in some areas. We can arrange commercial or drone permits in advance if you need them for professional shoots.