The winners of the 2024 Independent Photographer Travel Photography Awards have been announced. From snow-capped Himalayan peaks to vibrant city scenes and intimate moments of local life, these photographs transport us to far-flung destinations, revealing the hidden threads that connect us all, no matter how distant the landscape.
Related: Wow! These Beautiful Travel Photos Are out of This World!
Each month, The Independent Photographer hosts competitions judged by top industry professionals. This time, Canadian photographer Jody MacDonald, known for her powerful documentary and travel work, took on the judging role. With thousands of entries to choose from, the winning shots offer a glimpse into unique cultures, places, and experiences, celebrating the beauty and diversity of our world. Scroll down to see these remarkable scenes that capture the soul of travel.
1. “Supplies for Phugtal Monastery” by Andrew Newey. First Prize.
Location: Ladakh, Northern India
Phugtal is a serene Buddhist monastery in the isolated Lungnak Valley in southeastern Zanskar, a part of the stunning Himalayan area of Ladakh in Northern India. During the harsh winter months, when snow makes roads untraversable, local frozen rivers serve as key routes for delivering necessary supplies to the monastery and other remote religious sites.
2. “Kathakali” by Thaddäus Biberauer. Second Prize.
Location: Kerala, India
Kathakali, a vibrant Indian dance-drama from Kerala, enthralls with its elaborate costumes, expressive makeup, and powerful storytelling. Masked dancers enact epic tales from Hindu mythology, accompanied by rhythmic drumming and soulful singing.
3. “Candid scene at Lake Taungthaman” by David Keith Brown. Third Prize.
Location: Amarapura, Myanmar
The U Bein Bridge, a breathtaking teakwood marvel, stretches across Taungthaman Lake near Mandalay, Myanmar. At dusk, the scene is truly magical: colorful boats glide beneath the bridge, while fishermen, knee-deep in the muddy water, cast their nets, adding a touch of rustic charm to this iconic landscape.
4. “Breakfast time at Phuktal Gompa” by Andrea Peruzzi. Finalist.
Location: Ladakh, Northern India
In the secluded Phuktal monastery, a young monk stands by, anticipating the Master's arrival to kick off breakfast. Every day, after completing the Puja and before diving into monastic studies, the young monks join forces to cook a shared meal on the terrace that overlooks the breathtaking valley, tucked away in the Himalayas of Zanskar. As the older lamas age, the little school within the monastery, attended by kids from the nearby village aspiring to become monks, symbolizes the continuation of both the monastery and the local religious customs.
5. “Infinite Loop” by Barry Crosthwaite. Finalist.
Location: Rajasthan, India
Rajasthan's ancient stepwells, carved from the earth over a thousand years ago, are testaments to India's ingenuity. These architectural wonders, once vital for water harvesting and community life, now stand as silent guardians of a rich cultural heritage.
6. “The King of South Sudan” by Alessandro Bergamini. Finalist.
Location: Sudan
In the remote reaches of South Sudan, the Mundari tribe lives in harmony with their cattle, a bond forged over centuries of tradition. Their isolated existence has preserved ancient customs, where livestock are not just possessions, but cherished members of the family.
7. “Paddy straw” by Syed Mahabubul Kader. Finalist.
Location: Kazipur Upazila, Bangladesh
Workers unload paddy straw from a truck. This rice straw, a by-product for farmers, serves multiple uses like cattle feed and fuel.
8. “Gunja” by Sofia Brogi. Finalist.
Location: Sarnath, India
“She is Gunja, a little girl I met in Sarnath. I met Gunja when she approached me asking if I could buy her some food. She came to eat with me, stayed for a couple of hours, showing me Indian songs on YouTube and eating whatever was put on her plate. Then I met her family, her mother, and her little sisters who, like her, were forced to live on the streets.”
9. “Rainbow Mountain” by Nicolas Castermans. Finalist.
Location: Peruvian Andes
Local horse rider walking towards an amazing 5,000-meter mountain pass next to a Rainbow Mountain in the highlands of the Peruvian Andes.
10. “Huli Wigmen” by Luciano Lejtman. Finalist.
Location: Tari, Papua New Guinea
The Huli Wigmen hail from the highlands of Papua New Guinea and take great pride in their heritage. They believe their lineage traces back to a legendary farmer named Huli, who gifted them the lush, fertile land they inhabit today.
