Kv37

KV37 Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance in Luxor, Egypt

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction: The Significance of KV37 in the Valley of the Kings

Nestled on the west bank of the Nile near Luxor, KV37 is a modest yet archaeologically significant tomb within Egypt’s renowned Valley of the Kings. This ancient necropolis served as the final resting place for New Kingdom pharaohs and other elite figures, who shifted from constructing visible pyramids to carving hidden tombs in the valley’s cliffs to thwart grave robbers. Dating to the early 18th Dynasty, KV37 offers a unique perspective on burial practices beyond the grand royal tombs, highlighting the diversity of interments in this historic landscape (Mythlok; Wikipedia: KV37).

Although KV37 is largely undecorated and less celebrated than the tombs of Tutankhamun or Seti I, its archaeological finds—including pottery fragments and funerary goods—shed light on tomb reuse and burial customs of the era. Located near prominent tombs such as KV34 and KV42, it contextualizes the spatial and social dynamics of the Valley during the New Kingdom (Ancient Egypt Online; Boston Tribe Travels).

While KV37 is typically closed due to conservation measures, visitors can appreciate its location from nearby paths. Special tours or academic visits may provide rare access. This comprehensive guide covers KV37’s historical context, visitor information (including tickets and opening hours), recent archaeological discoveries, and practical travel tips for planning your trip (We Seek Travel; Earth Trekkers).

Ongoing research in the Valley of the Kings continues to reveal new secrets—such as the rediscovery of Thutmose II’s tomb and discoveries near the Ramesseum temple—offering visitors unparalleled opportunities to connect with Egypt’s ancient heritage. Combining your visit with nearby sites like Karnak and Luxor Temples will enrich your experience and support ongoing conservation efforts (archaeologymag.com; timesofisrael.com; Goota Travel).

Introduction
The Rise of Luxor and Thebes in Ancient Egypt
The Valley of the Kings: Purpose and Selection
Religious and Cultural Significance
Archaeological Discoveries and Research
Visitor Information: Tickets, Hours, and Accessibility
- Visiting Hours
- Tickets
- Accessibility
Travel Tips
KV37 in the Valley Context
Conservation and Heritage Management
Visitor Experience and Multimedia
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Location and Access to KV37
Archaeological Context of KV37
Visiting KV37: Status and Accessibility
Practical Information
Essential Tips for a Memorable Visit
Additional Recommendations
Responsible Tourism
Recent Discoveries in Luxor’s Valley of the Kings
Conclusion and Call to Action
References and Further Reading

The Rise of Luxor and Thebes in Ancient Egypt

Luxor, ancient Thebes, reached its zenith during Egypt’s New Kingdom (c. 1550–1070 BCE) as a center of political, religious, and cultural life. Thebes was the capital during the 18th to 20th Dynasties, famed for monumental complexes like Karnak and Luxor Temples on the east bank, directly across from the royal necropolis on the west (World History Edu).

The Valley of the Kings: Purpose and Selection

Selected for its symbolic association with death and rebirth, the Valley of the Kings became the burial ground for New Kingdom royalty and nobles. The hidden, rock-cut tombs were designed to protect against robbery—unlike the conspicuous pyramids of earlier dynasties—and number at least 65, with intricate layouts to safeguard the deceased (Mythlok).

Religious and Cultural Significance

Tombs are adorned with religious texts like the Book of the Dead and Book of Gates, meant to guide the deceased through the afterlife. Nearby mortuary temples, such as the Ramesseum, facilitated ongoing ritual activity in honor of the dead (Goota Travel).

Archaeological Discoveries and Research

From early European explorers to modern archaeologists using advanced technologies, the Valley’s secrets continue to emerge. KV37, discovered by Victor Loret in 1899, may have served multiple royal users in the 18th Dynasty, as evidenced by artifacts and traces of secondary use (Wikipedia: KV37).

Visitor Information: Tickets, Hours, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours: The Valley of the Kings generally opens daily from 6:00–6:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry typically one hour before closing). Hours may vary seasonally; always check official sources before visiting.

Tickets: Purchase tickets at the entrance or online from authorized vendors. The standard ticket permits access to three tombs from a rotating list. Entry to Tutankhamun’s or Seti I’s tombs requires extra tickets. Prices differ for Egyptian nationals and foreign visitors; advance booking is recommended during peak periods.

Accessibility: While the terrain is rugged, some paths and tombs are more accessible than others. Electric shuttle trains and ramps are available in parts of the Valley.

Travel Tips

Best Time: Visit early in the morning to avoid heat and crowds.
Guided Tours: An Egyptologist-led tour greatly enhances understanding.
Nearby Attractions: Combine with Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, and mortuary temples of Hatshepsut and Ramses II.
Photography: Non-flash photography is generally permitted in open tombs; check current regulations.

KV37 in the Valley Context

KV37, a modest 18th Dynasty tomb, is located near major royal tombs. Its contents offer valuable insights into the practice of tomb reuse and the diversity of the necropolis (Wikipedia: KV37).

Conservation and Heritage Management

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, the Valley of the Kings benefits from ongoing conservation projects like the Theban Mapping Project, balancing tourism with preservation of fragile wall paintings and tomb structures (Goota Travel).

Visitor Experience and Multimedia

Informational signage and digital guides help visitors interpret the Valley’s history. Official websites and educational platforms provide virtual tours and interactive maps for planning and accessibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the official visiting hours?
A: Typically 6:00 or 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with last entry one hour before closing.

Q: How can I purchase tickets?
A: At the site entrance or online from authorized vendors.

Q: Is KV37 open to the public?
A: KV37 is not usually open for standard tours but can be viewed from nearby paths.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, and they are highly recommended.

Q: When is the best time to visit?
A: Early mornings and weekdays.

Location and Access

KV37 is located in a side wadi of the Valley of the Kings, approximately 7 km from central Luxor. Access is via taxi, tour bus, or local ferry followed by a short drive (Boston Tribe Travels). While the Valley is open year-round, tombs open to the public rotate for conservation. As of June 2025, KV37 is not among the open tombs, but its entrance is visible near KV34 and KV57 (We Seek Travel).

Archaeological Context and Significance of KV37

KV37 is a small, undecorated tomb dating to the early 18th Dynasty (c. 1550–1292 BCE), possibly for a noble or royal household member. Its proximity to Thutmose III’s tomb (KV34) suggests close ties to the royal family. Although the original occupant remains unidentified, the tomb has yielded pottery and burial debris indicative of non-royal use and later reuse (Boston Tribe Travels; Archaeology Mag).

Visiting KV37: Status and Accessibility

Public Access:
KV37 is not included among the tombs open to the general public as of 2025 and is primarily accessible to researchers. Special academic or institutional arrangements may be possible with advance permission from the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.

Viewing from Valley Paths:
While direct entry is restricted, the entrance can be viewed from the paths near KV34 and Horemheb’s tomb. Knowledgeable guides can point out its location and explain its significance as part of broader tours (Intrepid Scout).

Practical Information for Visitors

Tickets and Entry:

General Admission: Standard ticket (approx. EGP 260/ USD 13) covers three selected tombs. Tutankhamun’s and Seti I’s tombs require separate tickets (Boston Tribe Travels).
KV37: Not accessible via standard tickets; check the official Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities website for updates.

Opening Hours:

Summer: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Winter: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM; last entry one hour before closing (We Seek Travel).

Photography:

Permitted in open tombs without flash (We Seek Travel).

Facilities:

Visitor center with restrooms, café, gift shop, and electric shuttles (Quick Whit Travel).

Essential Tips for a Memorable Visit

Research Which Tombs Are Open: Openings rotate for conservation (Boston Tribe Travels).
Hire a Guide: For context and to enhance your visit (Quick Whit Travel).
Arrive Early: Beat the crowds and heat (Quick Whit Travel).
Stay Hydrated and Protected: Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
Wear Good Footwear: The terrain is uneven (Boston Tribe Travels).
Respect Barriers and Conservation Rules: Do not touch walls or artifacts and respect all signage.
Tipping: Small tips may be expected for certain services (Wandering Wheatleys).
Accessibility: The Valley is not fully wheelchair accessible; visitors with mobility concerns should plan accordingly.
Security: Bag checks are routine; the site is well-policed (Lonely Planet).

Additional Recommendations

Visit Nearby Tombs: Thutmose III (KV34) and Horemheb (KV57) may be open and provide valuable context (Boston Tribe Travels).
Museum Visits: Artifacts from KV37 and similar tombs are often displayed at the Luxor Museum or the Grand Egyptian Museum (Archaeology Mag).

Responsible Tourism

Support Conservation Efforts: Follow site rules and consider supporting heritage organizations.
Respect Local Economy: Be considerate with vendors and guides (Wandering Wheatleys).

Recent Archaeological Discoveries in Luxor’s Valley of the Kings

Rediscovery of Thutmose II’s Tomb

In 2022, the rediscovery of Thutmose II’s tomb (C4) near the Valley of the Kings was confirmed by inscriptions on alabaster vessels, marking the first new pharaonic tomb found since Tutankhamun’s in 1922 (archaeologymag.com; archaeology.org).

New Tombs and Burial Shafts at Deir el-Bahri

Recent excavations near Hatshepsut’s temple have unearthed 3,600-year-old burial shafts, sealed coffins, and funerary artifacts, expanding our knowledge of ancient rituals (timesofisrael.com).

Discoveries at the Ramesseum Temple

Egyptian-French teams have found Third Intermediate Period tombs, workshops, and the educational “House of Life” at the Ramesseum, revealing the temple’s cultural significance (egyptindependent.com).

Location and Access

KV37 is situated in a side wadi of the Valley of the Kings, near tombs like Thutmose III (KV34) and Horemheb (KV57), about 7 km from Luxor. The site is accessible by taxi, organized tour, or ferry and vehicle (Boston Tribe Travels; We Seek Travel).

Summary: Planning Your Trip to KV37 and the Valley of the Kings

KV37, though closed to the general public, offers archaeological insights into non-royal burials and tomb reuse during the New Kingdom. Its location among grander tombs like KV34 and KV42 enhances appreciation of the Valley’s layered history (Wikipedia: KV37; Boston Tribe Travels). The Valley of the Kings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, continues to reveal new discoveries and invites visitors to explore with respect for both history and ongoing conservation (archaeologymag.com; egyptindependent.com; Goota Travel).

For the best experience, plan early morning visits, secure tickets in advance, and consider a guided tour. While direct access to KV37 is restricted, understanding its context will enhance your journey through Egypt’s ancient necropolis. Stay updated on discoveries and travel tips by downloading the Audiala app and following our social media channels.