Image Source: Ashok Aggarwal
About Tiffin Top
Perched on the lush Ayarpatta Hill in Nainital, Tiffin Top, also known as Dorothy’s Seat, is one of the town’s most popular viewpoints. Located at an altitude of approximately 2,290 metres (7,510 feet) above sea level, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of Nainital town, Naini Lake, the surrounding Kumaon hills, and the snow-clad Himalayan peaks on clear days. Situated about 4–5 km from Tallital Bus Stand, Tiffin Top is a favorite destination for nature lovers, trekkers, photographers, and families looking to enjoy the peaceful beauty of the mountains.
Unlike many viewpoints that can be reached by road, Tiffin Top rewards visitors with a pleasant trek through dense forests of oak, pine, deodar, and rhododendron. The peaceful surroundings, chirping birds, and cool mountain breeze make the journey as memorable as the destination itself.
History of Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat)
Tiffin Top is not only known for its spectacular scenery but also for its touching colonial history. The viewpoint is also called Dorothy’s Seat, named in memory of Dorothy Kellet, an English artist who tragically lost her life in an air crash while traveling overseas.
To commemorate her memory, her husband, Colonel J. P. Kellet, built a stone memorial and bench at this scenic location. Over time, the memorial became one of Nainital’s best-known landmarks and continues to attract visitors interested in both history and natural beauty.
The name “Tiffin Top” has an equally interesting origin. During the British era, this hilltop served as a favorite picnic destination where families and visitors would carry their afternoon meals, commonly known as “tiffin.” As the tradition became popular, the viewpoint came to be known as Tiffin Top—a name that has remained in use ever since.
Trekking to Tiffin Top
The trek to Tiffin Top is one of the highlights of visiting Nainital. The trail begins near Ayarpatta and passes through beautiful forests filled with towering trees, colorful wildflowers, and occasional viewpoints overlooking the valley. The trek is moderately easy and usually takes 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on your pace and the starting point.
For those who prefer not to walk, horse rides are available from nearby points in Nainital. The ride typically takes around 30–40 minutes, and charges generally range between ₹500 and ₹800, depending on the season and bargaining.
The viewpoint is especially popular during sunrise and sunset when the changing colours of the sky create a magical backdrop for photography.
Things to Do at Tiffin Top
Besides admiring the spectacular scenery, visitors can enjoy nature photography, birdwatching, sketching, and peaceful walks through the surrounding forests. The viewpoint provides excellent opportunities to capture panoramic images of Nainital, while adventure enthusiasts often combine the trek with nearby forest trails.
Several local photographers also offer traditional Kumaoni costumes for souvenir photographs, making the visit even more memorable.
Best Time to Visit
Tiffin Top can be visited throughout the year, but March to June and September to November are considered the best seasons. During these months, the weather remains pleasant, visibility is excellent, and the Himalayan peaks are often clearly visible.
Winter (December to February) offers crisp mountain views and occasional snowfall, while the monsoon season (July to August) transforms the forests into lush greenery, though trekking trails may become slippery.]
How to Reach Tiffin Top
By Air
The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, located about 70 km from Nainital. From the airport, taxis are available to reach the town.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Kathgodam Railway Station, approximately 35 km away. Kathgodam is well connected with Delhi, Lucknow, and Dehradun. Taxis and buses regularly operate between Kathgodam and Nainital.
By Road
Nainital enjoys excellent road connectivity with major cities such as Delhi, Haldwani, Kathgodam, Almora, and Dehradun. After reaching Nainital, visitors can hire a taxi to Ayarpatta or begin the trek from the designated trailhead. Horse rides are also available for those who prefer a more relaxed ascent.
Nearby Attractions
1. Naina Peak (China Peak) (3 km)
The highest viewpoint in Nainital, offering spectacular views of the Himalayan ranges and the town below.
2. Eco Cave Gardens (2 km)
A network of interconnected natural caves, landscaped gardens, and a musical fountain, making it an excellent family attraction.
3. Naini Lake (3 km)
The iconic heart of Nainital where visitors can enjoy boating, yachting, paddle boating, and peaceful lakeside walks.
4. Mall Road (3 km)
The town’s bustling shopping street, lined with restaurants, cafés, souvenir shops, bakeries, and local handicraft stores.
5. Snow View Point (3 km)
Accessible by ropeway or road, this famous viewpoint offers magnificent views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Nanda Kot peaks.
6. Naina Devi Temple (3 km)
One of the most revered temples in Uttarakhand, located on the northern shore of Naini Lake.
7. Raj Bhawan (Governor’s House) (2.5 km)
A magnificent British-era Gothic mansion surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens and an 18-hole golf course.
8. St. John in the Wilderness Church (2 km)
A historic church built in 1844 amidst dense deodar forests, known for its peaceful atmosphere and colonial architecture.
9. Himalayan View Point (near Ayarpatta)
A lesser-known viewpoint offering peaceful surroundings and excellent photography opportunities.
10. Kilbury Bird Sanctuary (12 km)
A paradise for birdwatchers, home to more than 250 species of Himalayan birds and surrounded by dense oak and pine forests.
Maps
FAQs
Why is Tiffin Top called Dorothy’s Seat?
The viewpoint is named after Dorothy Kellet, an English artist. Her husband, Colonel J. P. Kellet, built a stone memorial here in her memory after her untimely death.
How difficult is the trek to Tiffin Top?
The trek is considered easy to moderate and usually takes 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, making it suitable for most visitors with average fitness.
Is horse riding available to Tiffin Top?
Yes. Horse rides are available from Nainital and generally cost between ₹500 and ₹800, depending on the season.
What is the best time to visit Tiffin Top?
The best time is from March to June and September to November, when the weather is pleasant and Himalayan views are at their clearest.
Is there an entry fee for Tiffin Top?
There is generally no entry fee to visit the viewpoint, although parking charges or horse ride fees may apply.
What can you see from Tiffin Top?
Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Nainital town, Naini Lake, the surrounding valleys, lush forests, and snow-capped Himalayan peaks, making it one of the finest viewpoints in the Kumaon region.
