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Overview
In Arabic, Karnak means fortified village. This is a complex comprising corroded shrines, chapels, towers and other structures. It includes Karnak Open Air Museum, the second most visited site in Egypt.
Open Hours
Suggested Duration - 1-3 hours
What To Expect?
There are 200 structures covering a total of 100 hectares including the giant Amun-Ra temple, dedicated to a male god, taking up most of the space.
Tips
- To reach the complex, you can take a micro bus from the main micro bus station.
- The temples opens from 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
- There is a 'sacred lake' with tunnels connecting to River Nile.
Karnak Temple Complex Overview
Karnak is located in Luxor, southern Egypt. Known as the "world's largest open-air museum," Luxor is famous for its ancient Egyptian sites, including the Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, and Luxor Temple.
Karnak is a vast complex of temples, pylons, chapels, and other structures dedicated to the Theban gods and the greater glory of Egypt’s pharaohs. Built over 1,500 years, Karnak is the largest religious building ever constructed, with its Hypostyle Hall—a massive 5,000 m2area featuring 134 gigantic columns arranged in 16 rows.
| Known For | The grandeur, historical significance, and architectural brilliance of the complex. |
|---|---|
| Timings | Open from 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM. |
| Entry Fee | EGP 200 (INR 357.24) for adults and EGP 100 (INR 178.61) for students. |
| Tips | Carry a hat, sunscreen, and water as the area is open and can get hot. |
| Required Time | Allow 2-3 hours to fully explore the complex. |
| Restricted Items | Flash photography is not allowed inside the temples. |
More About Karnak
Karnak is the largest ancient religious site in the world. Highlights include the Temple of Amun-Ra, one of the largest religious complexes globally, and a Sound and Light Show held in the evenings that provides historical insights through visual storytelling.
Architecture of Karnak
The complex, showcasing a variety of architectural styles, includes temples, chapels, and pylons. The most impressive feature is the Hypostyle Hall, with 134 massive stone columns, some standing 21 meters tall. Walls and columns are intricately carved with hieroglyphics, depicting the religious and political life of ancient Egypt.
How to Reach Karnak
Karnak is in northern Luxor and accessible by taxi, horse-drawn carriage, or on foot from the city center.
Tips for Visiting Karnark
Hire a guide or use an audio guide to better understand the historical significance of the site.
Nearby Tourist Spots Of Kanark
Other nearby attractions include the Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, and Valley of the Queens.
FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Karnak
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