Karnak is not a temple so much as a city of temples: more than 2,000 years of building by pharaoh after pharaoh, dedicated mainly to the god Amun. It sits on Luxor’s East Bank, across the river from the balloons, and it is the natural second half of any balloon day. Here is how to see it well.
Why Karnak matters
Ancient Egyptians called it Ipet-Isut, “the most selected of places”. It was the religious heart of Thebes and one of the largest religious complexes ever built. Almost every major ruler of the New Kingdom added something — a pylon, an obelisk, a hall — so walking through it is walking through Egyptian history.
Highlights not to miss
- The Avenue of Ram-Headed Sphinxes at the entrance.
- The Great Hypostyle Hall: 134 giant columns, the tallest about 21 metres, carved and once painted. Begun under Seti I and completed under Ramesses II.
- The obelisks of Thutmose I and Hatshepsut. Hatshepsut’s is the tallest standing obelisk in Egypt — read about her in our Hatshepsut guide.
- The Sacred Lake, where priests purified themselves.
- The giant scarab beside the lake.
- The Festival Hall of Thutmose III and its “botanical garden” reliefs of foreign plants and animals.
Practical tips
- Go at opening time or late afternoon. Midday is hot and busy.
- Allow two to three hours.
- Hire a guide or download a plan. Karnak is huge and confusing on your own.
- Tickets are bought at the entrance; check current prices and hours before you go.
- Wear a hat and bring water.
Karnak and Luxor Temple
Karnak was connected to Luxor Temple, about 3 km south, by the Avenue of Sphinxes, restored and reopened in 2021 with a famous procession. Luxor Temple is smaller and best visited in the evening, when it is lit up. See both on the same day.
Balloon plus Karnak in one day
Most visitors do the West Bank after the balloon, because they land there. If you have already seen the West Bank, our Balloon + East Bank Experience takes you from the sunrise flight to Karnak and Luxor Temple. For both banks in one day, choose Balloon + Best of Luxor. Our three-day itinerary puts Karnak on day two.
Can you see Karnak from the balloon?
Balloons fly over the West Bank, so Karnak is across the river. On clear mornings you can pick out Luxor’s East Bank and the line of the Nile; Karnak is easier to appreciate from the ground.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to see Karnak?
Two to three hours for the main complex.
What is the best time to visit Karnak?
At opening time, before the heat and the tour groups.
Is Karnak or Luxor Temple better?
Karnak is bigger and more overwhelming; Luxor Temple is more compact and magical at night. See both.
