These magnificent rock-cut temples were built by Ramesses II around 1264 BC. Four colossal 20-meter-tall statues of Ramesses guard the entrance. The entire complex was relocated in the 1960s to save it from Lake Nasser flooding, an engineering marvel in itself.
Abu Simbel Temples in Egypt's Aswan Governorate, located 280 km south of Aswan near the Sudanese border, are two massive rock-cut temples commissioned by Ramesses II around 1264 BC and dedicated to himself and the gods Amun, Ra-Horakhty, and Ptah. The Great Temple is fronted by four colossal seated statues of Ramesses, each 20 meters tall, carved directly into the cliff face. The interior extends 63 meters into the rock through successive halls adorned with battle reliefs depicting the Battle of Kadesh. At the innermost sanctuary, four seated deities — Ramesses among them — are positioned so that twice a year (around February 22 and October 22) the rising sun illuminates three of the four statues, leaving only Ptah, the god of darkness, in shadow. The smaller Temple of Nefertari, dedicated to Hathor, stands 100 meters north and is fronted by six 10-meter statues of Ramesses and Nefertari. Both temples were dismantled and rebuilt 65 meters higher and 200 meters back from their original positions between 1964 and 1968 to save them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser — a UNESCO-coordinated engineering feat that makes the site doubly remarkable. The reconstruction joint is visible above the temples on the artificial cliff face. Most visitors arrive by early-morning flight from Aswan, spend two to three hours on site, and return by midday. Driving from Aswan takes approximately three to four hours each way. The museums near the entrance display a film on the relocation project.
Good to know
- Hours
- Daily 5:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Best for
- history buffs, photographers, couples
Location
Abu Simbel, Aswan Governorate
22.3372, 31.6258 View on map
Highlights
- Four 20-meter colossal statues of Ramesses II carved into the sandstone cliff
- Inner sanctuary solar alignment — sunrise illuminates three deities on February 22 and October 22
- Battle of Kadesh reliefs covering the Great Temple's hypostyle hall walls
- Temple of Nefertari — one of Egypt's only temples dedicated to a queen
- UNESCO relocation exhibition revealing the 1960s engineering achievement
Tips for visiting
- Early morning flight from Aswan recommended
- February 22 and October 22: sun illuminates inner sanctum
- Combine with Lake Nasser cruise
When to visit
The early-morning flight from Aswan arrives before the crowds and heat build. November through March is ideal; summer temperatures at Abu Simbel exceed 40°C by midday.
Accessibility
The approach to both temples is on flat compacted ground. The temple interiors have even stone floors but low-ceilinged side chambers. Wheelchair access to the main halls of both temples is feasible; the innermost sanctuary requires negotiating shallow steps.
Frequently asked questions
How do visitors get to Abu Simbel from Aswan?
The fastest option is a 45-minute morning flight from Aswan Airport, with return flights the same day. Driving takes three to four hours each way and convoy travel may be required; bus tours are also available.
What is the solar alignment event at Abu Simbel?
Twice a year, around February 22 and October 22, the rising sun penetrates 63 meters to illuminate three of the four inner sanctuary statues. These dates attract large crowds and require early arrival.
How long does a visit to Abu Simbel take?
Two to three hours is sufficient for both temples, the museum, and a walk along the Lake Nasser shore. Most day-trip itineraries budget three hours on site.