Kom Ombo Temple Travel Guide: Top Sights in Egypt, Tours & Travel

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Kom Ombo Temple- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Historical & Cultural; Egypt; 5 Reviews

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Suggested Duration: 2 hours

Perched dramatically on a high bank where the Nile curves sharply near Aswan, Kom Ombo Temple presents a unique architectural footprint in Egypt. Constructed primarily during the Ptolemaic dynasty (180-47 BCE), its complete symmetry is immediately striking: twin entrances, parallel halls, and mirrored sanctuaries. This design served a specific purpose – the temple is equally dedicated to two distinct deities: Sobek, the crocodile-headed god associated with the Nile's fertility and fearsome power, and Horus the Elder, the falcon-headed sky god. Its riverside position made it a prominent landmark for ancient river traffic. Kom Ombo’s setting in a region historically inhabited by Nile crocodiles deeply influenced its primary cult. Sobek’s veneration here highlights the complex relationship ancient Egyptians had with the river – both as a life-giver and a potential source of danger. This connection is physically evident in the adjacent Crocodile Museum, housing mummified crocodiles discovered nearby, once revered as sacred manifestations of Sobek. Within the temple walls, remarkably preserved reliefs include detailed depictions of surgical instruments and birthing chairs, indicating its possible role as a center for healing and medicine alongside worship. Beyond the dual dedication, the temple preserves significant historical records. Intricate carvings include one of the earliest known representations of a 365-day Egyptian calendar, detailing festival dates. Scenes depict rituals specific to each god, while cartouches of later Roman emperors like Trajan adorn the deeply carved columns of the grand hypostyle hall.

Operators offering tours in Egypt

Attractions in Aswan

Abu Simbel

4.8

Philae

4.8

Aswan Dam

Elephantine

3.4

Nubian Museum

4.6

Kalabsha Temple

4.8

Tombs of the Nobles in Aswan

4.4

Qubbet el-Hawa

4.4

Reviews of Kom Ombo Temple

詹頤

5
Reviewed: 2025-08-10

The Temple of Kom Ombo is a unique double temple built during the Ptolemaic period (180–47 B.C.), with some structures later added during the Roman era. Its design is extremely rare, featuring a symmetrical layout where the courtyards, halls, sanctuaries, and rooms are duplicated for two sets of deities. The southern half is dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god associated with fertility and creation, worshipped alongside the goddess Hathor and the moon god Khonsu. The northern half is dedicated to Haroeris (Horus the Elder), the goddess Tasenetnofret, and Panebtawy, the god of the Two Lands. The entire temple is perfectly symmetrical, with mirrored structures on either side of the central axis, reflecting the unique local practice of dual worship. What I find especially interesting is that around 300 crocodile mummies were discovered near the temple. These are now exhibited in the adjacent Crocodile Museum, highlighting the local reverence for Sobek. -5/1/25
Tas A

5
Reviewed: 2025-06-29

Another marvel, another rich history. This temple we went during the night time and it gave a different personality of things in history. Really enjoyed the guided tour. Interesting facts about the 2 gods this temple is dedicated to. Must visit.
Alicia Ulbrich

5
Reviewed: 2025-06-14

Kom Ombo was one of the coolest stops on my Egypt trip. It’s unique because it’s dedicated to two gods: Sobek (the crocodile god) and Horus (the falcon god), so the whole temple is split into two symmetrical halves. Super interesting layout! The carvings are really detailed. One wall shows ancient medical tools, and there’s also a section with an early calendar carved into the stone, showing how the Egyptians tracked time and important religious festivals. So cool to see how advanced they were. There’s also a Crocodile Museum next door with real mummified crocs, which is wild. The temple sits right by the Nile, and the views are amazing. It’s smaller and quieter than some of the big temples, but definitely worth a stop.
Enrique Hernandez

5
Reviewed: 2025-06-06

Another Historical Temple that you will enjoy the rich history behind it. There is no such thing as a bad Temple in Egypt nor one better than the other. Most of these Temples I visited on the end of May beginning of June where low season starts in Egypt so you can move freely from heavy crowds.
Yao Wang

5
Reviewed: 2025-05-09

By far the best temple we visited in Egypt. We went in March in the evening, so very windy and cold. Make sure you wear a jacket or wind breaker at least. Since hubby and I were with the Nile cruise, our private guide was excellent. The experience was definitely worth it. He gave us the highlights and let us roam for half an hour to explore the whole area. Then we went to the mummification crocodile museum, which was small but really worth it. This entrance fee is included in the Temple Ticket for us, please check with your tour guide or when purchasing your tickets online. It's absolutely breathtaking at night, which we were lucky to see due to our cruise arrival slightly later than expected. Highly recommended, do not miss!