Visit to Cairo, Egypt

 

Our journey to Egypt was meticulously planned after thorough research, inspired by numerous YouTube travel videos. We took charge of our own itinerary, making all the bookings via online platforms like Booking.com. The excitement of exploring ancient wonders on our own terms was exhilarating.

In November 2022, my wife Padmaja and I embarked on our much-anticipated adventure, flying from Dubai to Cairo with Egypt Air. We opted to stay at the Hilton Ramses Hotel, primarily because of its renowned Indian restaurant, Namaste. As pure vegetarians, finding authentic Indian cuisine in a foreign land was a delight. The food was as delectable as it was authentic, and we relished every meal. Our room offered a stunning view of the River Nile from the balcony, setting a perfect tone for our Egyptian escapade.

The next morning, we hired a local tour guide for $100 per day, who also provided car services. This not only saved us on local conveyance but also gave us insightful commentary throughout our tours. Our first stop was the legendary Giza Pyramids. Standing before these colossal structures was a surreal experience.

We ventured inside the Grand Pyramid. Ascending Passage: This passage is one of the first steep climbs encountered inside the pyramid. It is a narrow and steep passage that leads upwards from the descending passage to the Grand Gallery. The passage is about 39 inches wide and 47 inches high, with a slope of about 26 degrees. Climbing this passage requires careful movement due to its steepness and confined space.

Grand Gallery: After the ascending passage, visitors enter the Grand Gallery, a large and impressive inclined corridor. The Grand Gallery is about 153 feet long, 28 feet high, and has a steep incline of about 26 degrees.

Visitors to the Great Pyramid should be prepared for these physical challenges, as the steep passages and confined spaces can be demanding. Proper footwear and caution are essential when navigating these ancient structures.

We then visited the Great Sphinx of Giza, an iconic symbol of ancient Egypt. The Sphinx, with its lion's body and human head, is a marvel of ancient sculpture and an enduring mystery. Standing in its shadow, we couldn't help but appreciate those structures.

In the evening, we visited the Cairo Museum, home to some of the world's most significant ancient artifacts. Among the highlights was the exhibit dedicated to Tutankhamun. The young pharaoh's golden mask, intricate jewelry, and other burial treasures. The museum's extensive collection of mummies provided a fascinating glimpse into ancient Egyptian burial practices and their beliefs about the afterlife.

The museum was established in 1902 and designed by the French architect Marcel Dourgnon. It is an impressive building featuring neoclassical architecture. It is located in Tahrir Square, in the heart of Cairo, making it easily accessible for visitors. The museum boasts over 120,000 items, ranging from the pre-dynastic period to the Greco-Roman era. The museum houses a collection of royal mummies, including those of Pharaohs such as Ramses II and Hatshepsut, providing insights into the mummification process and the lives of the pharaohs.

The following morning, we boarded a flight to Luxor. Our accommodation at the Steigenberger Nile Palace Hotel, priced at $100 per night with breakfast included, was perfect. Luxor, often referred to as the world's greatest open-air museum, captivated us with its rich history and magnificent structures.

We embarked on a serene two-hour cruise on the River Nile at Luxor. The experience was nothing short of magical. As we glided along the calm waters, we were surrounded by lush greenery and a tranquil atmosphere that seemed worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The serene beauty truly captivates you.

The next day, our local guide, hired for $100 per day, took us to the Valley of Kings, Queens, and Nobles. These valleys are home to the tombs of pharaohs, their consorts, and nobility. The elaborate decorations and inscriptions inside the tombs were stunning. We were particularly struck by the Tomb of Tutankhamun.

In the evening, we visited the Luxor Karnak Temple, one of the largest religious complexes ever constructed. The temple's vast hypostyle hall, with its massive columns adorned with hieroglyphs, was breathtaking. The sacred lake and the towering obelisks added to the temple's majesty.

After our immersive experiences in Luxor, we returned to Cairo before finally flying back to Dubai. Our trip to Egypt was a dream come true. As we reminisce about our adventure, we are filled with gratitude for the beautiful memories we've created together.