El-Bahariya is an oasis in the western Egyptian desert.

Africa

Egypt

Bahariya

 The White Desert: an unusual desert with its colours going from white to cream.

Desert Blanc

Aswan is considered to be the gateway to Egypt.

Aswān

Cairo

Esna is a farming town located on the west bank of the Nile.

Esna

Europe

Central America

North America

South America

Asia

Middle East

Oceania

Esna is a very lively town. I liked its houses with their well-kept mashrabiyas , examples of provincial Egyptian architecture from the 19th century and the remnants of its magnificent caravanserai from the Ottoman era, the Wekalat al-Gedawi. Those who love authentic local encounters will enjoy visiting the souks in Esna: they take place on a Monday, market day in the town.
The main attraction in Esna is Khnum Temple, a much sought-after place by travellers. Its construction dates back to the Ptolemaic era, coming to an end in the Roman period. The temple is dedicated to Khnum, a deity with a ram's head.
I loved the temple's hypostyle hall for its majestic columns with magnificent capitals shaped like palm leaves, lotus buds and bunches of grapes (an example of Roman influence)! Remember to cast your eyes up to admire the luxurious decoration on the ceiling and on the walls, with their frescoes of Roman emperors dressed as Pharaohs making offerings to the gods and their depictions of Pharaohs Ptolemy VI and VIII.

Esna Vacations

Esna: How to get there?

Esna: When to go?

Esna: For how long?

Esna: What to see in the surroundings?