Teachers

Ven. Khenpo Tsewang Dongyal Rinpoche

Ven. Khenpo Tsewang Dongyal Rinpoche is a revered Tibetan Buddhist master and scholar, recognized for his deep realization, scholarly excellence, and dedication to preserving the teachings of the Nyingma lineage.

Born on June 10, 1950, in the Dhoshul region of Kham, eastern Tibet, his birth was marked by miraculous signs, including a painless delivery and the appearance of a fragrant flower. He was soon recognized by the head lamas of Jadchag Monastery as the tulku (reincarnation) of Khenpo Sherab Khyentse, a former abbot of Gochen Monastery known for his scholarship and retreat.

Raised by his elder brother, Venerable Khenchen Palden Sherab Rinpoche, he began his formal studies at a young age. He studied under many great masters, including His Holiness Dudjom Rinpoche and His Holiness Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche. He received full monastic ordination from His Holiness the 16th Gyalwang Karmapa. Both Khenpo Rinpoche and his brother excelled in their studies, earning the highest degrees of Khenpo and Dorje Lopön.

Following the Chinese occupation of Tibet, the Khenpo brothers escaped to India in 1961 and eventually continued their teaching activities in the United States. In 1989, they co-founded the Padmasambhava Buddhist Center (PBC) to present the Buddha’s teachings, particularly the Dzogchen tradition, to a Western audience.

Known for his gentle humility, joyful humor, and profound wisdom, Khenpo Tsewang Dongyal Rinpoche is a beloved teacher. He is a prolific author and translator and, alongside his late brother, has guided the establishment of PBC centers, retreat facilities, and the Namdha Shelri Foundation to ensure the continued transmission of the Buddha Dharma for future generations.

For more information, please visit Rinpoche’s official website

Events with Ven. Khenpo Tsewang Dongyal Rinpoche

Embodying the Innate Wisdom and Compassion of the Twenty One Taras
October 11, 2025 - December 11, 2027

Explore the symbolic meaning, power, and purpose of the 21 Taras through teachings, embodied meditation, mantra, and journeys with Tara. In this immersive and transformative program, Dorje Lopön Chandra will offer us a lens through which we can understand and integrate the contemporary context of the Taras through inspiring stories…