Light and Life Academy is perched on a mountaintop about 7000 ft. above sea level near Ooty,Tamil Nadu, India, with a spectacular view of the Ketti valley, arguably the second largest inhabited valley in the world. The campus is an inspiring 60,000 sq ft theater with up to three seasons visiting it everyday. Custom-designed by one of India's most celebrated architects, Mr. Jaisim (recipient of NDTV award for Lifetime Achievement in Architecture), any part of the campus is a window to the continuously unfolding drama of the sights and sounds of nature.
The quality of light is perfect for students of photography. Besides, as there are few distractions, the students stay focused on photography. The locals and officials are not just supportive but welcoming of cameras and photography, unlike most other places. It is a truly conducive environment to create a picture.
Having known architect Jaisim’s work, this place is a complete package of the way of working. Very beautiful, surprising in every small space. The most important thing I liked was how he understood the requirements of the campus and gave the user what exactly was wanted. Also the scale is very friendly. “A Paradise out of Nowhere”.– Yangchen Bhutia
Just living in the Nilgiris for a year elevates the way you look at life in general. The world just seems more beautiful, so that has been one of the biggest takeaways from my time at LLA. I see a lot of that influencing my work even today.– Ajay Ram, Alumnus, Batch 6
Being a student of Architecture and with immense love for Photography, Light & Life is the ultimate institute I could have been to for my case study. The campus is absolutely calm and I can feel the joy a student would undergo learning from the institute. I would love to come and learn from the institute someday.
Akash Sharma,D.Y. Patil College of Architecture
Nilgiris is India's first biosphere reserve. It has been declared as one of the 34 'hotspots' of the world because of its unique biodiversity. Rolling grasslands, dense sholas, waterfalls, streams, lakes, vast expanse of tea plantations, interspersed with vegetable gardens, spectacular viewpoints, an amazing variety of flora and fauna, fabulous trekking trails, heritage sites, unique villages, spell binding sunrises and sunsets, magical light, pollution free atmosphere, mist, clouds, fog, star studded skies and serenity. Nilgiris presents a truly breathtaking kaleidoscope of visual treats and soul stirring experiences.
