Born in Nangchen, Kham, eastern Tibet
Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche
Deceasedटुल्कु उर्ग्येन् रिन्पोचे
Also known as Chowang Tulku Karma Urgyen
Tibetan Buddhist meditation master of the Kagyü and Nyingma lineages, considered one of the greatest Dzogchen masters of his time
About
In his youth, Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche practiced in retreat for a total of twenty years. He then became one of the most sought-after Buddhist teachers of his generation. He drew students from both Eastern and Western backgrounds, to his hermitage above Kathmandu.
He is the father of four sons. Each of them became a recognized Buddhist master in their own right: Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche, Tsikey Chokling Rinpoche, Tsoknyi Rinpoche, and Mingyur Rinpoche.
Quick facts
- Born
- 1920
- Birthplace
- Nangchen, Kham, Tibet
- Profession
- Buddhist teacher, Meditation master
- Nationality
- Nepal
- Status
- Deceased
- Died
- 1996-02-13
Career & life timeline
- 1920
- 1920s
Recognized by the 15th Karmapa as the reincarnation of Chowang Tulku and Nubchen Sangye Yeshe
- 1980
Undertook a world teaching tour across Europe, North America, and Asia
- 1996-02-13
Died in Nepal
Achievements
Established six monasteries and retreat centers in the Kathmandu region, including at Boudhanath, the Asura Cave, and Swayambhunath
First lama to spread Tibetan Buddhist teachings to Malaysia
Organizations & affiliations
- Nagi Gompa
Related people
Last updated: 2026-09-02