Kalabsha Temple
A serene Nubian temple on an island, offering a unique blend of cultures and peaceful Lake Nasser views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid midday heat and crowds
Kalabsha Temple
Best Time
Avoid midday heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Nubian temple on an island, offering a unique blend of cultures and peaceful Lake Nasser views.
"We were the only people on the entire island! It's a bit shocking that this temple is so much less visited."
Negotiate Boat Fare Wisely
Boat prices to Kalabsha can be high. Negotiate firmly and clarify what's included. Some paid 150 EGP per person .
Beware of Fake Tickets
Only purchase entrance tickets on the island itself. Be wary of individuals posing as police demanding payment .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Temple of Kalabsha
Island location on Lake Nasser
A unique Nubian temple dedicated to the sun god Mandulis, relocated to preserve it.
Lake Nasser Views
Surrounding the island
Stunning, peaceful vistas of Lake Nasser, a poignant reminder of Nubian displacement.
Nubian and Egyptian Religious Fusion
Temple interior and exterior
Discover fascinating reliefs and inscriptions showcasing a blend of deities and cultures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Kalabsha: Plan Your Boat Trip
Authentic Experience: Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Negotiate Boat Fare Wisely
Boat prices to Kalabsha can be high. Negotiate firmly and clarify what's included. Some paid 150 EGP per person.
Beware of Fake Tickets
Only purchase entrance tickets on the island itself. Be wary of individuals posing as police demanding payment.
Hire a Local Guide
A guide enhances the experience by explaining the temple's history and unique religious fusion.
Explore the Entire Site
Don't miss the excellent reliefs, including images of elephants, found around the temple complex.
Tips
from all over the internet
Negotiate Boat Fare Wisely
Boat prices to Kalabsha can be high. Negotiate firmly and clarify what's included. Some paid 150 EGP per person.
Beware of Fake Tickets
Only purchase entrance tickets on the island itself. Be wary of individuals posing as police demanding payment.
Hire a Local Guide
A guide enhances the experience by explaining the temple's history and unique religious fusion.
Explore the Entire Site
Don't miss the excellent reliefs, including images of elephants, found around the temple complex.
Embrace the Serenity
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and lack of crowds, a stark contrast to busier sites like Philae.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kalabsha Temple is praised for its unique beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and the rare experience of having the site almost entirely to oneself. Visitors appreciate the blend of Nubian and Egyptian religious elements and the stunning views of Lake Nasser. However, the remote location means boat trips can be pricey, and there are warnings about potential scams involving fake entrance tickets.
"The place is unique and really picturesque. However mind that it's quite remote and the boats might be pricey. Personally, I had a terrible experience on the land with several people pretending they were police and charging 1000 pounds for "entrance tickets" which turned out to be fake. The tickets are sold on the island itself, mind that"
Георгий Титов
"We were the only people on the entire island! It's a bit shocking that this temple is so much less visited. We went to Philae earlier in the day and it was a mass of humanity. But here, we were free to explore the island and its temples all by ourselves. It's also a fascinating fusion of Nubian and Egyptian religions that we didn't get in any other temple complex. But go with a guide who knows the history or it will be lost on you."
Tim Curry
"This is a beautiful place. One of the things which made it such a great experience is that we were the only people visiting! Make sure you walk around the whole site. There are some excellent reliefs to see. We found images of an elephant on one of the stone blocks outside.
It takes a bit of effort to get to and some negotiations with the boatman , (we paid 150EGP per person, which was probably too much).
Views of Lake Nasser are stunning but sad to think of all the Nubian people displaced by the creation of the Lake."
Elaine Carr
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kalabsha Temple is situated on an island and requires a boat trip from Aswan. You'll need to negotiate with boatmen for passage. Some travelers paid around 150 EGP per person, but prices can vary. It's advisable to confirm the cost and duration before setting off.
Boats are generally available from Aswan's Nile Corniche or the marina. Be prepared for some negotiation to secure a fair price. The journey offers beautiful views of Lake Nasser.
The primary cost is the boat hire, which can range from 500 EGP or more. Entrance tickets are purchased separately on the island.
Yes, many tour operators in Aswan offer trips to Kalabsha Temple, often combined with other Nubian sites. This can simplify logistics and provide a guide.
No, Kalabsha Temple is located on an island in Lake Nasser and is only accessible by boat.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for Kalabsha Temple are sold on the island itself. Be cautious of individuals who may try to sell you fake tickets elsewhere.
The entrance fee for Kalabsha Temple is typically around 10 USD plus the cost of a guide if you choose to hire one. Boat hire is a separate, significant expense.
Opening hours can vary, especially during the low season when special permission might be required. It's best to check locally or with your tour operator.
Generally, tickets are purchased on-site. However, during the low season, advance permission might be necessary.
During the low season, access might be restricted and require special permission obtained in advance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Kalabsha Temple features a small forecourt, a vestibule, and a large relief in the first room. You can also find excellent reliefs around the site, including images of elephants. The temple is dedicated to the Nubian sun god Mandulis.
Kalabsha Temple is often much less visited than other Aswan attractions, offering a peaceful and uncrowded experience.+1 You might even find yourself as the only visitors on the island.
Originally located south of Aswan, the temple was moved to save it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser due to the Aswan High Dam. It's notable for its blend of Nubian and Egyptian religious elements.
Information on specific facilities is limited, but given its remote island location, amenities might be basic. It's advisable to use restrooms before your boat trip.
The Kiosk of Qertassi is a nearby structure that was also relocated. While Kalabsha is well-maintained, the Kiosk of Qertassi is described as being a bit ruined.
📸 📸 Photography
The open views of Lake Nasser are stunning and offer a beautiful backdrop. The temple's architecture and reliefs also provide excellent photographic opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed at Kalabsha Temple. However, always be respectful of the site and any local regulations.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for photography, and also help avoid the midday sun.
Drone usage is often restricted at historical sites in Egypt. It's advisable to check with local authorities or your tour operator before flying a drone.
Look for the unique reliefs, the fusion of Nubian and Egyptian iconography, and the expansive views of Lake Nasser.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🏛️ History Buffs & Egyptology Enthusiasts
The temple's relocation story is a significant piece of modern archaeological history. Hiring a knowledgeable guide is highly recommended to fully appreciate the intricate inscriptions and the fusion of cultures evident in the temple's design.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Relocation of Kalabsha Temple
+1 To preserve this important piece of Nubian and Egyptian heritage, the temple was meticulously dismantled and relocated to its current island location. This monumental effort ensured that future generations could still marvel at its unique architecture and historical inscriptions.The relocation project was a testament to international cooperation and engineering prowess. It involved carefully numbering and transporting each stone block to the new site, where it was reassembled with remarkable accuracy. This process, while preserving the temple, also serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of large-scale infrastructure projects on cultural heritage and the displacement of Nubian communities.
Understanding the Deities and Inscriptions
+1 This dedication highlights the rich cultural exchange and religious syncretism that occurred in ancient Nubia. The temple walls are adorned with various inscriptions and reliefs that offer insights into the beliefs and practices of the time.One notable inscription is a long decree carved by the Roman Governor Aurelius Besarion in AD 250, which forbade certain actions.
These historical records, combined with the temple's unique iconography, provide a fascinating glimpse into the fusion of Egyptian, Nubian, and Roman influences. A knowledgeable guide can help decipher these intricate details, making the visit far more enriching.The Experience of Visiting Kalabsha
While the journey requires a boat trip and some negotiation with boatmen,
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