Tiffin Top, also alternatively referred to as Dorothy’s Seat, is the most popular viewpoint in Nainital, the capital of Uttarakhand. It offers spectacular views of the Kumaon hills as well as of the town, as it lies at a distance of 4 kilometres from the centre of the town. This has made it a must-visit destination for tourists in search of the charm of the hills and the thrill of seeing the scenic view. Tiffin Top is also a unique name, following the culture of picnics that represented this place as a favourite lunch stop for travellers to behold natural beauty. This article unfolds what makes Tiffin Top Nainital a dear place, from its scenic views and outdoor activities with travel tips and nearby attractions.
History and Significance of Tiffin Top
Tiffin Top is also popularly known as Dorothy’s Seat, a monument erected as a homage to an English artist who loved the mountains- Dorothy Kellet. The viewpoint was constructed by Dorothy’s husband, Colonel J.P. Kellet, to perpetuate her love for Kumaon Hills. Since then, it has come to be used as a tourist destination, enjoying breathtaking views and offering a peaceful atmosphere that appeals both to locals and tourists alike. The name “Tiffin Top” has been derived from the picnics under British rule, wherein the tourists would have their noon meal while viewing the magnificent spectacle. This place remains a charm even today, and people throng Tiffin Top to catch a glimpse of peace in the mountains.
Reaching Tiffin Top Nainital
You can reach Tiffin Top through a hike on foot for 4 km down the Mall Road from Nainital. The trail though moderately steep is full of scenic beauty with glimpses of surrounding valleys, dense forests, and chirping birds. While trekking to Tiffin Top is popular among nature lovers, one can also hire horses from Mall Road or Bara Pathar to reach the top. The 45-minute ride is perfect for those who wish to experience the rustic charm of hills without the physical strain of trekking. However, trekking pays off as a trip through oak, pine, and deodar forests adds to the natural beauty of this journey.
Things To Do At Tiffin Top
A plethora of activities await you once you reach Tiffin Top. Ideal for all types of travellers, here is a look at some popular activities to enjoy:
Photography
Tiffin Top Nainital offers panoramic views of the Kumaon region, making it a paradise for photographers. It can be said that while scanning any scene from this view point-from as near as possible one finds clear view lines with the surrounding peaks and valleys, which helps in getting the rugged beauty of the landscape on film or digital camera. Whether professional photography or a casual enthusiast, such views from Tiffin Top are bound to inspire.
Picnicking
Justifiably so, Tiffin Top makes for a great picnic spot. Families and parties will go there with quick snacks or ready-to-eat lunch to relish while taking in the cool mountain air. The green grassy area at the top is an ideal place to just sit and unwind, and also spend time in the company of loved ones.
Adventure Sports
Tiffin Top has also emerged as a favourite destination among all the adventure-loving people. Rock climbing and rappelling are the activities that tourists can do here, and adventure-seekers can enjoy the real thrill in this serene environment. These activities are well taken care of by local adventure companies, ensuring safety while the rush experience is offered to tourists.
Birdwatching
Dense forests around Tiffin Top abound with birds; therefore, this place is heaven for enthusiastic birdwatchers. Early morning, in particular, is a great time for birdwatching; one often spots woodpeckers, parakeets, and other species of Himalayas, which add melodious touches to the serenity of the site.
Nature Walks and Trekking
Besides reaching Tiffin Top, one can discover more trails and nature walks extending to the surrounding forest. These trails are less crowded and rather quieter. Here one can feel deep cohesion with nature. The fresh mountain air and lush greenery make every stride on these paths a refreshing one.
Attractions near Tiffin Top
Paraglims which one can visit on the way to Naina Devi Temple, near Tiffin Top, for the most out of your Nainital visit:
Naina Peak
Located at an altitude of about 2611 meters, it is the highest peak of Nainital. Naina Peak is visible from the various points in and around Nainital and offers 360-degree wide views of the Himalayas and the town below. And it is about 6 kilometres away from the Tiffin Top. The only options are trekking or horseback by crossing the Bhatta Falls. It offers another challenging but rewarding hike for trek lovers and nature lovers.
Lands’ End
Lands’ End is another viewpoint which is located near Tiffin Top. Its ground provides a mystical scenery of Khurpatal Lake and its surrounding valleys. A short trek from Tiffin Top takes one to Lands’ End, which makes it possible to visit both viewpoints within one day.
Snow View Point: It is a short distance from the entry point where one can get panoramic views of Nainital.
About 3 kilometres from Nainital is the Snow View Point which presents a breathtaking view of the snow-covered Himalayas. The site is accessible through a ropeway from Mallital and must be visited by those who want to see closely the range of the Himalayas.
Nainital Zoo
One of the attractions near 3 km from Tiffin Top is Nainital Zoo which houses numerous species of the Himalayas ranging from the snow leopard and Himalayan bear to the barking deer. Thus, it has become a vacation spot for wildlife enthusiasts to learn more about the fauna of this region.
Useful Tips for Planning a Visit to Tiffin’s Top Nainital
So that you may make the most of your visit to Tiffin Top, here are some useful tips:
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Tiffin Top is from March to June and September to November. These months possess clear skies and comfortable weather besides making trekking and sightseeing even more enjoyable.
Early Morning Trips: In case you are setting out at dawn, you will also reach Tiffin Top before the crowd gathers. It also helps if you click pictures in the morning as the light is more conducive. You have a better chance of watching birds, too.
Carry Necessities: As Tiffin Top is a naturally created site without many facilities, carry some essentials such as water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat. You would be required to wear comfortable shoes for trekking.
Hiring a Guide: For first-timers, it hires the real adventurer-the local guide or guided trek. Such guides can share interesting insights about the flora, fauna, and history of the area.
Tiffin Top is a peaceful and natural place, so visitors should not litter. Instead, they must respect the local flora and fauna to maintain its beauty since it has already become everyone’s favourite viewpoint.
Why Tiffin Top Nainital is a Must-Visit
Tiffin Top is more than just a viewpoint; it holds within it the great charm of nature along with the cultural history of Nainital. It offers adventure, leisure, and scenic beauty all mixed into one beautiful place. Whether you are looking for solitude, a family outing, or an adrenaline dose, Tiffin Top will provide something special for every individual. It remains a favourite among locals and tourists alike. It is perfect for witnessing some of the uncut natural beauty of the Kumaon hills and providing a break from the beehive of activities in the town below.
Conclusion
A visit to Tiffin Top Nainital is an excursion into the heart of the beautiful landscapes of Uttarakhand. Be it something magical about some views, exciting treks, or maybe quiet reflection, this place is something that every nature lover will relish. Adding Tiffin Top to your list of must-go places in Nainital would certainly make for a memorable experience of the region’s character traits of hills and heritage. So, pack that tiffin box, and your camera too, and go to the scintillating discovery at this little gem in Nainital!
Author: vikram singh
Vikram provide personalized travel planning for individual, couples, families, and groups. I enjoyed planning trips and guiding indian traveller. vikram have a 5years of experience in this field and is well known in community.
