ABU SIMBEL
and temples of
UPPER EGYPT

Abu Simbel

The magnificent temple of Ramses II at Abu Simbel is towards the top of any visitors "must see list" and is perhaps only just behind the Pyramids and the treasures of Tutankhamen in spectacle, with its 20 meter high (over 65 feet) seated figures of Ramses II at the Great Temple and the Lesser Temple dedicated to his wife Nefertari and the goddess Hathor. With colossal figures on the outside it is difficult to see how this could be called the Lesser Temple anywhere but here.

Fly or travel by air-condition mini bus or coach to Abu Simbel for the day or stay the night and enjoy the magnificent sound and light show.

Kom Ombo

Directly by the side of the Nile is the Temple of Kom Ombo that has two parallel processional paths, which is unusual, but this is due to Kom Ombo Temple being dedicated to two gods - Horus, the falcon god, and Sobek, the crocodile god. Still today you can see a well preserved mummified crocodile on your visit.

Edfu

A very large and well preserved temple dedicated to the falcon god - Horus. Built on the sight of an older temple Edfu temple was completed whilst Cleopatra's father ruled Egypt. It's building spanned 180 years and is on a grand scale with the first pylon (main entrance) being 79 meters (260 feet) high and 36 meters (118 feet) wide.

Esna

The Temple of Khnum is in the middle of Esna town but is 9 meters (30 feet) below street level. Khnum is the ram-headed god of creation that made people from clay on his potters wheel. This temple was built whilst Egypt was under Greek rule but this hypostyle hall was added by the Roman emperors Claudius and Vespasian.

Dendera

The town of Dendera is at the centre of worship of the cow-headed god Hathor, the goddess of love, dance and music. A very interesting temple with a crypt that you can visit to see the beautiful relief's and a roof that offers commanding views over the countryside and the temple complex. Our guides will ensure you enjoy the history of this and all the temples.

Abydos

The Temple of Seti I at Abydos was completed, after his death, by his son Ramses II so the two styles of relief can be seen quite clearly - the slightly raised bas-relief of Seti I as opposed to the sunken relief's of Ramses II. Beyond this temple is one built by Ramses II and though only the lower sections remain some of the original colours are quite beautiful.

Our experienced guides and all our services are there to ensure that your holiday is tailored just for you. You will have the full services of a Touch Travel representative and appropriate guides on all visits.