Nominations for Indiahikes Monthly Photo Contest: March 2025 Edition

March is a special month for trekking. Winter is slowly coming to an end, and signs of spring are starting to appear. The snow begins to melt, the days get a little warmer, the flowers begin to bloom, and the trails start to open up again. It's a beautiful time to be in the mountains, and the photos we received this month show just how stunning it can be.

For the March 2025 edition, we've selected the Top 8 Nominations. Our judges will carefully review these images to determine the Winner and Runner-up. In addition, we’re introducing a Trekkers' Choice Award, where you get to vote for your favorite photo. The image with the most votes will take home this special honor.

Remember, you only get one vote- so take your time, explore each photo, and choose the one that speaks to you most. The voting form can be found at the end of the nominations.

1. Ranthan Kharak - Ajith Mathew

When it comes to rhododendrons, the Ranthan Kharak trek instantly comes to mind- and this photo says it all. You are walking through a dense forest of rhododendron trees, with the flowers in full bloom during this season. You’ll find red, pink, and white flowers carpeting the ground. It is a sight to behold! 

2. Ali Bedni Bugyal - Deepansh Menon

Of all the meadow treks in our country, Ali Bedni is the grandest. The sight of Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunti jutting right out of the meadows is a sight to behold. And this photo captures the essence of it! As you walk towards the summit, the Bedni Top, you feel like you’re getting closer to the mountains. The vastness of the landscape and the superiority of the mountains have been captured beautifully by the photographer.  

3. Deoriatal Chandrashila - Siddharth Singh

Deoriatal Chandrashila is another well-known spring trek, as you get to witness rhododendron blooms in their full glory during this season. This photo captures the moment perfectly- vibrant flowers in the foreground, and the timeless grace of the mountains watching over them.

4. Kuari Pass - Siddharth Bapna

Here’s a remarkable night sky photo from the Akhrotgetta campsite, showing what the camping experience is like at night. With millions of stars above, the view is truly breathtaking. A shoutout to the photographer for patiently capturing this perfect scene, with the mountains in the background, all while dealing with the cold.

5. Har Ki Dun - Yash Grover

We’re amazed by this stunning photo, showing a rare view of the Har Ki Dun valley. The black peak stands tall, glowing in the alpen light. We really admire the photographer’s effort to fly a drone in such a vast valley during sunset, with the strong winds, to capture this beautiful shot.

6. Sandakphu Phalut - Arun Kumar

Sandakphu is a trek rich in cultural experiences. Along the way, you get the chance to connect with the local villagers and learn about their way of life. They are incredibly warm, making you feel right at home. This beautiful photo offers a glimpse into their culture and captures a moment of pure, innocent emotion.

7. Deoriatal Chandrashila - Vasudha Wadhera

Here’s another shot from Deoriatal Chandrashila that caught our eye. It showcases the Rohini Bugyal, one of the trek’s most memorable spots. As you step into this vast meadow, you can’t help but be in awe of its sheer expanse. The rhododendron trees, in full bloom, add a burst of color, making the scene even more magical. It’s a landscape that feels perfectly crafted, with the flowers adding that final touch of beauty.

8. Brahmatal - Sri Hari Anand

You come across this serene lake surrounded by Oak, Pine, and Rhododendron trees. This is Bekaltal. Bekaltal is an oligotrophic lake, replete with algae and surrounded by dense forests. During winters, the lake freezes, and as the season transitions to spring, it starts melting. The photographer has elegantly captured one of the standout moments of this trek. 

We had a great time going through all the photos this season! 

After narrowing it down to the Top 8, now it's your chance to pick your favorite and show it some love!

Vote for your favourite entry in the form below: 

We will announce the winners on April 30th, 2025. Stay tuned!