Egypt

A unique holiday destination

Home to 2 of the 7 ancient wonders, famous for inventing the process to preserve human bodies called mummification and for discovering papyrus paper, Egypt is a very unique tourist destination. Egyptian civilisation is one of the oldest on Earth and the country is truly a historian’s delight. But Egypt is not just about history. It offers lot more to a traveller, though the historical monuments such as the Pyramids and the Great Sphinx tower over everything else.

Most of Egypt is desert area

Whenever I think of Egypt, Pyramids, mummies, Nile river etc. come readily to mind. But what does not readily come to mind is ‘desert’ – over 90% of Egypt is desert area. Most of the towns on located either on the banks of Nile river or the Nile delta or the shores of Red sea/Mediterranean sea. The banks of Nile river and its delta are home to ~95% of Egypt’s population.

Giza Pyramids, Egypt — Nile river, Cairo, Egypt

Many ancient monuments are in various stages of ruin

Most of the ancient monuments in Egypt are in various stages of ruin. Not surprising as most of them built in the years BCE. Only some of the pyramids and the Sphinx are largely intact. At other monuments, I got to see huge columns, large statues, intricate carvings, beautiful paintings and inscriptions-all of which are truly inspiring and my mind would always wonder as to how the ancient Egyptians managed such wonderful work that even today, would not be very simple.

But to my untrained eye, there was not much of variety. Everything looked similar.

Where to go in Egypt

The following are the most popular destinations :

Cairo –

The capital city is sprawling metropolis. Giza, famed for its pyramids, is a next door neighbour. Pyramids were essentially burial chambers of the Pharaoh’s, filled with treasures and items that they would require in afterlife. The walls were decorated with paintings and carvings. There are also chambers for Queen and other family members. Intricately designed, the pyramids had walkways and ventilation shafts.

Today, some of the mummies and remaining treasures can be found at the Egyptian museum, another must visit place.

Pyramids are the only one of ancient 7 wonders that still stands. They are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Aswan –

The start or the end point of an unforgettable Nile river cruise. Site of High Dam and the ancient Philae temple.

Abu Simbel –

Located near Aswan, it is the site of the famous temples built by ancient King Ramses II. The temple was shifted in 1960’s when Aswan High Dam was being built. It is about 4 hours drive from Aswan. Also accessible by cruise on Lake Nasser or by air from Aswan.

Luxor –

Located on the site of ancient Thebes, the capital of the Pharaohs at the height of their power, believed to be between 4th and 1st century BCE. There is lot to see in Luxor, the highlights being Karnak temple, Luxor temple, Valley of Kings and Valley of Queens, both containing royal tombs. Luxor is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and referred to as open museum.

Hurghada –

Located on the Red Sea that has some amazing corals. Famous for diving and snorkelling.

Alexandria –

Located on Mediterranean sea, about 200 kms from Cairo. Fort Qaitbay stands today where the ancient wonder-the lighthouse was built. Though a bit stretched, a day trip from Cairo is possible.

Sharm el-Sheik –

Another popular beach town. Is an alternative to Hurghada. It is a long drive from Cairo so it would be best to fly down. Mt. Sinai, believed to be the biblical Mt Sinai where Moses received Ten Commandments, is accessible from here. Hiking to the top is permitted.

White Desert –

Famous for calcium rock formations. About 540 kms from Cairo, the trip requires 2 days. Accommodation is basic. But spending a night out in the desert in a tent and having meals with local bedouins will warm the hearts of adventurers.

Is Egypt worth visiting?

Undoubtedly. Egypt is a destination worth visiting. I had a wonderful time in Egypt. But it not a destination you can just fly into. Bit of planning and pre-bookings are a must.