Lopon Tsechu Rinpoche was born in Bhutan in 1918. At the age of seven he became a monk in one of the biggest Bhutanese monasteries. At 13, he accompanied his teacher, a great Drukpa Yogi, to Nepal. There he received full training and meditated under severe conditions in the holy places of Guru Rinpoche and in Milarepa's caves. Later Rinpoche accomplished numerous retreats and undertook pilgrimages to monasteries and holy places in Tibet.

In 1944 Lopon Tsechu met H.H. the 16th Karmapa in Bhutan who became one of his most important masters. Rinpoche received most of the teachings and transmissions of the Karma Kagyu Lineage from Him.

For decades, Tsechu Rinpoche contributed to development of Dharma in Nepal, establishing monasteries and nunneries that serve the indigenous Buddhist population of Sherpas, Tamangs and Tsumbas. He is regarded as the key figure holding together the diverse Buddhist community of Nepal.

In 1987 Lopon Tsechu visited Europe for the first time, invited by his western students Ole and Hannah Nydahl. Since then he travels extensively throughout West and East Europe, North and South America, Canada and Australia giving teachings and countless initiations in the Kagyu centers founded by Lama Ole Nydahl. Under his guidance a Kalachakra Stupa in Spain, two other Stupas in Germany and one in Russia were built. Rinpoche also visits different Buddhist centers in China, Tibet, Mongolia, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Taiwan, Sri Lanka, India and Hong Kong.

The immense power of his compassion is felt by people of every background and benefits all beings.

Selected Teachings

• The Four Thoughts which Turn the Mind from Samsara