Nominations for Indiahikes Monthly Photo Contest: January 2025 Edition

With the coldest month of the year behind us, the entries we received are nothing short of spectacular. January treks brought an array of frozen landscapes, snow-dusted peaks, and vibrant views that showcased the raw beauty of the treks in winter. 

Each photograph reflects not just the trek, but the journey of the photographer, overcoming difficulties and capturing a moment that will stay with them forever. The Indiahikes Monthly Photo Contest has once again highlighted the beauty, grit, and spirit of our trekking community.

As always, it was a difficult task to select the Top 10 Nominations.

Our judges will select the Winner and Runner-up from these amazing photos. 

Much like every month, this time too, we have a Trekkers' Choice Award - the photo with the most votes will win a special prize. 

Here are the Top 10 Nominations for the January 2025 Edition:

1. Kuari Pass - Daksh Saroha

The Kuari Pass trek is one of our favourite winter treks because it offers incredible mountain views as you trek through scenic oak forests and wide, open meadows. In winter, the clear skies bring the peaks even closer, making the mountains feel within reach. The air is crisp, and the snow-covered terrain adds a magical touch, creating a serene and unforgettable experience. Here’s a photo that captures the perfect winter landscape. 

2. Kedarkantha - Aditi Das Patnaik

Here’s a technically sound and well-framed photograph from Kuari Pass! There are very few photos that tell a story. This photo has been taken while descending from the summit, as the trekkers walk towards the Khujaai campsite. The photographer has framed it beautifully, following the golden ratio rule, while capturing this beautiful moment as the trekkers walk down joyously.

3. Sandakphu Phalut - Ling Chun Shen

We receive loads of photos of the Sleeping Buddha, but rarely do we come across images that show the winter landscapes in a raw setting. As you ascend from Sabargram, you get panoramic views of the mighty Sleeping Buddha. The biggest reason to do this trek is the grand views of the big mountains. Here’s a photo that captures the beauty of the trek in winter.

4. Deoriatal Chandrashila - Aakanksha Swaminathan

Deoriatal Lake is one of the major highlights of the trek, and to witness snowfall at the lake is a matter of luck! This photo is truly special as we rarely come across such special moments. We appreciate the effort taken by the photographer to freeze this moment, despite the cold, chilly weather. 

5. Kedarkantha - Jaskirat Singh

Here’s another heart-touching photo from the Kedarkantha summit. As the view of Mt Swargarohini greets you at the summit, you are accompanied by your trekkers and one of your favourite furry companions. The trekker shares an emotional moment, which is beautifully captured by the photographer. 

6. Kuari Pass - Vishal Pawar

Kuari Pass is not just a trek, it’s a gateway to India’s most famous peaks. In winter, the clear skies bring the peaks even closer, making the mountains feel within reach. It is a breathtaking and unforgettable experience to witness the mountains up close. This stunning close-up shot of the Hathi and Gauri Parvat sums it up!

7. Kedarkantha - Rashida Jafri

In winter, you’re treated to some of the most breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, where the sky bursts into vibrant colors, casting a magical glow over everything around you. The beauty of each moment feels like nature’s way of greeting and bidding you farewell. As the sun sets at Bhoja Dhadi campsite, the sky fills with warm, soothing colors. The beauty of it all leaves you in awe.

8. Chhattisgarh Jungle Trek - Subramanian Kalpathi

The Chhattisgarh Jungle trek is a paradise for nature lovers. The river walk, being the major highlight of this trek, is home to various species. On this trek, as you walk on the river bed, with soft sand beneath your feet, you’ll notice these patterns made by dune crickets. Here’s a tiny glimpse of one of the many wonders of nature! 

9. Kuari Pass - Ridhu Pranav Ganesan

Here’s a photo that perfectly captures the spirit of trekking in the Himalayas during winter. You walk through amazing landscapes, all covered in thick snow. Everywhere you look, it’s all different shades of white, and you can’t help but be amazed by the views. 

At the same time, it is tough to get through in extreme cold conditions, and clicking photos is definitely not an easy task. The photographer has impressed us with his effort and unique perspective while capturing the essence of trekking in snow. 

10. Kedarkantha - Aditi Andalu

Kedarkantha is one of India's top winter treks, and the stunning campsites along the way are a big part of its charm. Here’s a photo of Khujaai campsite which is laid out in a vast clearing, surrounded by pine forest. It looks picture-perfect in winter, and feels like one is in a fairytale-like setting! 

We thoroughly enjoyed looking at every photo that we received this season. 

We have picked the Top 10 entries and now it’s your turn to show love to your favourite entry out of these.

Vote for your favourite entry in the form below: 

We will announce the winners on February 28, 2025. Stay tuned!