10 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Egypt
Famous for its rich history, ancient monuments and beautiful landscapes, Egypt is one of the world’s oldest civilisations. It’s the dream of many travellers to visit the land of the pharaohs at least once in their lifetime. Steeped in history that goes back centuries, there are a lot of places to explore in Egypt.
The Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Egypt You Must Visit
Egypt welcomes you with a lot of places you’ll love exploring. History, intrigue and beauty, the many attractions in Egypt offer a holiday to remember. Here are the top 10 must-visit attractions your Egypt tour package from India must include.
1. The Pyramids of Giza
Your trip to Egypt isn’t done until you’ve visited the Pyramids of Giza. Located just outside Cairo, these ancient wonders were built more than 4,500 years ago and they continue to amaze visitors. The largest and most famous pyramid is the Great Pyramid of Khufu. The Pyramid of Khafre and the smaller Pyramid of Menkaure are the other interesting places to explore here.
A huge statue with the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, the Great Sphinx stands near the pyramids. Visitors love taking rides on camels here and taking photographs. It’s best to visit the pyramids early in the morning so you can avoid the heat.
2. The Egyptian Museum in Cairo
Head to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo after visiting the pyramids. You’ll find the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts at this museum. It’s home to treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamun that include his famous golden mask. Statues, mummies, jewellery and everyday items used by ancient Egyptians are showcased here. Understand the fascinating history behind each piece on a guided tour. Easy to reach from most hotels in Cairo, the museum is located in Tahrir Square.
3. Luxor’s Karnak Temple
Luxor is famous worldwide as the greatest open-air museum in the world. Karnak Temple is one of the highlights here. Built over 2,000 years by many pharaohs, this vast temple complex amazes you. It’s an unforgettable experience walking through the massive columns of the Hypostyle Hall. When the light hits the ancient stones beautifully during sunrise or sunset, the temple is an absolutely magical sight. Telling the temple’s history, the evening sound and light show is very popular among visitors.
4. The Valley of the Kings
The famous Valley of the Kings is also in Luxor. Many pharaohs were laid to rest, including the boy king Tutankhamun in this ancient burial ground. Admire the colourful wall paintings that tell stories from the afterlife after you enter the tombs. Each of the tombs is different and some of these have been preserved very well. Carry water and wear comfortable shoes since the tombs can be hot inside. While you can’t take photographs inside the tombs, memories of the visit stay etched in your mind forever.
5. Abu Simbel Temples
One of Egypt’s most impressive monuments are the Abu Simbel Temples. Pharaoh Ramses II built them to display his power. Located near Lake Nasser in southern Egypt, the temples are carved into a rock cliff. You’ll see four truly breathtaking giant statues of Ramses II right at the entrance. The interiors of the temples are adorned with beautiful wall carvings and statues.
The beautiful temples are worth a visit and they make Egypt a top destination among international tour packages from India. When the Aswan High Dam was built in the 1960s, the entire temple complex was moved to save it from flooding. This is counted among the world’s greatest engineering feats ever.
6. The Temple of Philae
Another beautiful site to explore is the Temple of Philae near Aswan. Dedicated to the goddess Isis, it’s on an island in River Nile and you can reach it only by boat. The columns in the temple are very elegant and you’ll also see beautiful carvings. The peaceful boat ride to the temple soothes all the visitors. The Temple of Philae, like Abu Simbel, was also moved to protect it from flooding. If you stay overnight in Aswan, you shouldn’t miss the sound and light show.
7. Alexandria’s Bibliotheca Alexandrina
Egypt’s main city on the Mediterranean Sea is Alexandria. One of the greatest libraries of the ancient world, the Library of Alexandria was once located here. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina stands today as a tribute of the modern world to the lost wonder. Often hosting exhibitions, museums and events, the library holds millions of books in many languages. The sloping roof and the building’s unique design make it an architectural wonder.
8. The White Desert
All the wonders in Egypt aren’t ancient ruins. Located about 500 kilometres from Cairo, the White Desert is a magical natural attraction. The white chalk rock formations which look like giant mushrooms and other shapes make the desert famous. You’ll feel like you’re walking on another planet here. An overnight camping trip is the best way to experience the White Desert. You’ll never forget the mesmerising experience of watching the sun go down and then gazing at the stars twinkling in the night sky.
9. Siwa Oasis
Visit Siwa Oasis if you want to see a different side of Egypt. Lying in the western desert near the Libyan border, the oasis is a very peaceful place. The mud-brick houses, natural springs and palm trees draw a lot of visitors here. The local people speak a unique language and they have their own culture. The ancient Oracle Temple, where Alexander the Great is said to have visited, is one of the highlights here. Tasting dates from the palm groves and taking a refreshing dip in the natural hot springs are must-do activities. You’ll love visiting Siwa in the cooler months.
10. The Red Sea Riviera
Head to Egypt’s Red Sea coast to relax a bit. There are beautiful beaches and the sea waters are a clear blue at the resorts here like Dahab, Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh. One of the best places in the world for diving and snorkelling, the Red Sea is blessed with colorful coral reefs, exotic fish and warm water. It’s an absolute paradise for water lovers. Enjoy the boat trips, desert safaris and join the scuba diving lessons offered by many of the hotels here. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming or just relax by the sea even if diving isn’t quite your cup of tea.
Final Thoughts
Timeless beauty and ancient secrets fascinate you in Egypt. There is something for every traveller, from the mighty Pyramids to peaceful oases. Travel Saga Tourism offers exciting packages to the mystical land of Egypt. It’s a wonderful blend of history, nature and relaxation. The memories you make here are sure to stay with you forever.