Pyramid of Khafre

The Pyramid of Khafre is the second-largest pyramid on the Giza Plateau at Al Haram, Giza, Egypt, standing south-west of the Great Pyramid. Built for the Fourth Dynasty pharaoh Khafre, son of Khufu, around 2500 BCE, it appears taller than its neighbour because it sits on higher bedrock and has a steeper angle, although it is slightly shorter at about 136 metres originally. Its most distinctive feature is the cap of smooth Tura limestone casing stones that still survives near the summit, the only significant section of the original polished outer layer left on the plateau. At the base, visitors can see the remains of the mortuary temple on the east face, the causeway that once linked it to the Valley Temple beside the Sphinx, and the huge granite and limestone blocks of the surrounding complex. The interior has two entrances, one on the north face and one at the base, leading by a narrow descending corridor to a burial chamber with a plain granite sarcophagus. The interior is a separate, cheaper ticket than the Great Pyramid, takes about 15 to 20 minutes, and is hot and cramped. Most visitors spend 45 to 60 minutes on the exterior walk and optional interior. Photographers favour the early-morning angle from the north-east that captures the casing stones lit against the sky, and the view from the Panorama Point viewpoint where all three pyramids line up. Crowds build from about 10:00 and peak around midday, so the interior is quietest first thing. The path around the pyramid is soft sand and rocky ground, with little shade, so sturdy footwear and water are important. Camel handlers and photo hustlers circulate in the area, and prices should be agreed before any ride. The exterior is included in the general Giza Plateau ticket of about EGP 700 (~$14), and the interior is charged separately at the booth, with prices that vary by source, so confirming the amount on arrival is wise.