Temple of Khonsu

Tucked away in the southwest corner of the massive Karnak complex lies the Temple of Khonsu. Dedicated to the moon god Khonsu (son of Amun and Mut), this temple is a perfect, almost complete example of a New Kingdom temple. It serves as the starting point for the Opet Festival procession and the grand Avenue of Sphinxes leading to Luxor Temple. [1]

Quick facts Encyclopedic guide FAQ
Karnak (SW Corner) Moon God Khonsu Vibrant Colors

Quick facts

A fast snapshot of the Temple of Khonsu—its builder, its god, and its unique place in history.

Location

South-West corner of the Amun-Ra Precinct at Karnak, facing south towards the Avenue of Sphinxes and Luxor Temple. [1]

Dedicated to

Khonsu, the Moon God, "The Traveller" who traverses the night sky. He is the son of Amun and Mut. [2]

Construction

Begun by Ramesses III (20th Dynasty), continued by Ramesses IV and XI, and completed by the High Priest Herihor. [3]

Preservation

Excellent. It is considered one of the most complete New Kingdom temples, retaining its pylon, court, hypostyle hall, and sanctuary roof. [1]

Highlights

The vivid ceiling paintings (vultures, astronomical scenes) and the majestic gateway of Ptolemy III Euergetes (Bab al-Amara). [2]

Visiting

Included in the standard Karnak ticket. Most groups skip it, so it's a peaceful spot to admire art and architecture up close.

Encyclopedic guide

A detailed tour of the Temple of Khonsu, from its astronomical ceilings to its role in the Opet Festival.

The Hidden Gem of Karnak

The Temple of Khonsu is an architectural time capsule. While the Great Hypostyle Hall nearby lost its roof centuries ago, Khonsu's temple remains largely intact. It sits in the southwest corner of the Precinct of Amun-Ra. Its axis points south, directly towards the Temple of Mut and Luxor Temple, highlighting its role in the grand processions of Thebes. [1]

Pylon of the Temple of Khonsu
The Pylon of the Temple of Khonsu. Note the slots for flagstaffs and the excellent preservation of the cornice.

Key Features

  • The Gateway of Ptolemy III: Known as Bab al-Amara, this massive sandstone gate stands just in front of the temple, marking the entrance from the south. [2]
  • Avenue of Sphinxes: The temple marks the official starting point of the 2.7 km avenue connecting Karnak to Luxor Temple. [1]
  • Sanctuary of the Barque: The inner holy place where the sacred boat of Khonsu resided, still featuring its original pedestal. [3]

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers to common questions about visiting the Temple of Khonsu.

Yes, generally the Temple of Khonsu is accessible with the standard Karnak entrance ticket, unlike the Mut Precinct which sometimes requires a separate or special ticket.
The Temple of Khonsu marks the start of the Avenue of Sphinxes. While the avenue is open, you usually cannot exit Karnak through the southern gate (Bab al-Amara) to walk it; you must exit via the main visitor center and enter the Avenue from the designated points.
Most ancient Egyptian temples have lost their roofs. The roof at Khonsu protects the interior paint from the sun and elements, meaning we see the colors much as the ancients did 3,000 years ago.

Sources & further reading

References supporting the historical data, architectural details, and dates presented in this guide.

  1. Oriental Institute, Chicago, The Temple of Khonsu (Epigraphic Survey). View
  2. Wilkinson, Richard H. The Complete Temples of Ancient Egypt. Thames & Hudson, 2000.
  3. Ministry of Tourism & Antiquities (Egypt), Karnak Temple Complex. View
  4. Centre Franco-Égyptien d'Étude des Temples de Karnak (CFEETK), Khonsu Temple.

Note on visiting: Opening hours and ticket prices are subject to change by the Ministry of Tourism. Please check official sources prior to your visit.

Last updated: February 17, 2026