Tomb of Ramses VI
Al Qarna, Luxor, 1340420
One of the largest and most beautifully decorated monuments in the Valley of the Kings, the Tomb of Ramses VI (also known as Ramesses VI or Rameses VI) is far more elaborate than Tutankhamun’s sparsely decorated neighboring tomb. Ramses VI took it over from the pharaoh who originally designed it, his nephew and predecessor, Ramses V.
The basics
The Tomb of Ramses VI lies alongside other pharaonic graves in Luxor’s Valley of the Kings. Most travelers visit as part of a tour of ancient Luxor, perhaps with a sunrise hot-air balloon ride to view the Valley of the Kings from above.
The standard Valley of the Kings entry fee gains entry to three tombs, but an additional ticket is required to visit the Tomb of Ramses VI. When booking tours, be sure that the Tomb of Ramses VI is specified as an inclusion: half-day or full-day Luxor tours with multiple stops generally only allow time to visit the three included tombs.
Things to know before you go
While the tombs are underground, the Valley of the Kings is open to the elements, and the sun can be fierce. Bring a hat, water, and sunscreen.
Some of the tombs in the Valley of the Kings have wheelchair access, but the ramps in the Tomb of Ramses VI are too tight for chairs to maneuver.
Photography is forbidden in all tombs to protect the ancient decorations.
How to get there
The Valley of the Kings lies on the West Bank of the Nile, across the river from the city of Luxor on the East Bank, and about a 45-minute drive from downtown. There’s no public transit, and driving in Egypt is hectic, so most travelers visit with a private driver or as part of an organized tour.
When to get there
The tomb is open seven days a week from early morning to late afternoon. Visiting at lunchtime when tour groups are generally in restaurants can increase your chances of beating the crowds—but be aware that this is the hottest time of day. Early risers may want to opt for a dawn visit.
The art in the Tomb of Ramses VI
Ramses VI used excellent artisans to decorate this spectacular tomb, which has been drawing tourists since Roman times (the Romans believed it belonged to the legendary Ethiopian king Memnon). Hieroglyphs retell stories from sacred texts, while a gorgeous gold and black image depicts the sky goddess Nut swallowing the sun each evening and giving birth to it again in the morning. Portraits depict Ramses VI consorting with gods and goddesses of all kinds.
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