KV20
Monument Pharaonic tomb in Valley of the Kings
Royal tomb within the Valley of the Kings near Luxor, associated with New Kingdom burials; visitors study its architecture, wall inscriptions and excavation history.
KV20 is a tomb in the Valley of the Kings on the west bank of the Nile at Luxor, dating to the New Kingdom period. It is well known for its association with the 18th Dynasty ruler Hatshepsut and contains an early royal burial complex.
The tomb’s architecture and inscriptions link it to Hatshepsut and to funerary arrangements for the royal family of that period; it has been the subject of archaeological study and conservation. Visitor access depends on site management and conservation work in the Valley of the Kings.
KV20 is located within the Valley of the Kings archaeological area on Luxor’s west bank, among the concentration of royal tombs produced during Egypt’s New Kingdom.
How to Get to KV20 #
Reach Luxor’s West Bank as for other tombs; the Valley of the Kings compound is best accessed by taxi or organized tour from central Luxor (20-30 minutes). On arrival, check the ticket office and notices for which tombs are open that day.
Tips for Visiting KV20 #
- KV20 is sensitive and often closed to protect its early 18th Dynasty decorations-ask a guide before setting expectations.
- This is one of the earliest tombs (linked to Hatshepsut and possibly Thutmose I), so take time to appreciate the unusual plan and historical significance if it's open.
- Bring a guide who can explain why KV20's architectural features differ from later royal tombs.
Best Time to Visit KV20 #
Avoid high summer heat; check daily tomb openings because several (including KV20) have restricted access for conservation.
Weather & Climate near KV20 #
KV20's climate is classified as Hot Desert - Hot Desert climate with very hot summers (peaking in July) and cool winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 7°C to 40°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 22°C and lows of 7°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
Comfort
Weather
February
February is cool with highs of 24°C and lows of 8°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
Comfort
Weather
March
March is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 12°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
Comfort
Weather
April
April is warm with highs of 35°C and lows of 18°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
Comfort
Weather
May
May is hot with highs of 39°C and lows of 22°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
Comfort
Weather
June
June is hot with highs of 40°C and lows of 24°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
Comfort
Weather
July
July is the hottest month with highs of 40°C and lows of 25°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
Comfort
Weather
August
August is hot with highs of 40°C and lows of 25°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
Comfort
Weather
September
September is hot with highs of 38°C and lows of 23°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
Comfort
Weather
October
October is warm with highs of 35°C and lows of 19°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
Comfort
Weather
November
November is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 12°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
Comfort
Weather
December
December is cool with highs of 24°C and lows of 8°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.