Egypt Discovery
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Attraction Luxor

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.

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.

02 Overview

A first look

On Luxor's West Bank, the Ramesseum is Ramses II's mortuary temple and part of the Theban necropolis, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979. We normally schedule a 45–60 minute visit from Luxor city centre, roughly 5 km (15–20 minutes' drive).

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 metres 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

  • 01 Mortuary temple of Ramesses II on the Luxor West Bank, noted for its fallen colossus and pylons.
  • 02 We recommend a guided visit with our Egyptologists to interpret Ramesses II reliefs and funerary inscriptions.
  • 03 Contains Battle of Kadesh reliefs and procession friezes; photo-friendly morning light in the open courtyards.
  • 04 3.5 km from the Valley of the Kings (10–12 minute drive); combine both on a West Bank half-day.
  • 05 Low shade at midday and uneven ancient stone underfoot; allow mobility time for photography and close inspection.

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

  1. 01 What is the Ramesseum?
    The Ramesseum is the mortuary temple of Ramses II on Luxor's West Bank. It was constructed in the 13th century BCE during Ramses II's reign (1279–1213 BCE) and forms part of the Theban Necropolis UNESCO listing. Key features include the fallen colossus, extensive reliefs such as scenes from the Battle of Kadesh, and the temple's hypostyle elements.
  2. 02 How long should I spend at the Ramesseum?
    Allow about one hour to see the main reliefs and the fallen colossus. If you combine it with other West Bank sites (Valley of the Kings, Medinet Habu), plan a half-day visit. We usually recommend a morning visit to avoid the strongest sun and to make time for nearby monuments.
  3. 03 Is photography allowed at the Ramesseum?
    Personal photography is generally permitted at the Ramesseum; flash is discouraged. Tripods, commercial shoots and drones require official permits – ask us and our Egyptologists will advise and, where possible, arrange permissions. Always respect signage and avoid climbing on reliefs or statuary when photographing.
  4. 04 Is the Ramesseum accessible for guests with limited mobility?
    The Ramesseum has uneven ancient stone, loose sand and steps, so accessibility is limited. There are no formal ramps and some areas are best reached on foot; short distances may be manageable with a strong companion. We can arrange a private car drop-off near the entrance and advise on route options for specific mobility needs.
  5. 05 Do I need to hire an Egyptologist guide for the Ramesseum?
    A licensed Egyptologist provides essential context for Ramses II's inscriptions and the temple's layout. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we arrange private Egyptologists rather than running large coach-group commentary. Standard site entrance fees are included in this ticket unless the product page explicitly states otherwise.
  6. 06 What should I bring and wear to the Ramesseum?
    Bring water, sun protection and wear sturdy shoes; cover shoulders and knees for modesty. A wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen and a light layer for wind or early-morning chill are useful. Avoid loose sandals on uneven stone and follow site notices – climbing on monuments is not permitted.

Last updated 18 May 2026 Product ID: TKT-LUX-505376

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