Tsangnyön Heruka (Tibetan: གཙང་སྨྱོན་ཧེ་རུ་ཀ), also known as the “Madman of Tsang,” was the first person to organize and rewrite Milarepa’s life story into two separate, well-structured texts. Before him, Milarepa’s biography existed as a collection of scattered narratives. Tsangnyön Heruka selected and shaped them into two major works: The Life of Milarepa, later translated and...Read More

Introduction to Mabja Tsangpo Mabja Tsangpo, often referred to as the Peacock River, holds great significance as the upper course of the Karnali River, which is one of the longest rivers in Nepal. Originating from the Tibetan Autonomous Region, Mabja Tsangpo meanders through some of the most breathtaking landscapes of Tibet before it eventually flows...Read More

Introduction to Nianri Monastery Nianri Monastery, also referred to as Chu-Khu Monastery, stands as a significant spiritual landmark along the revered Mount Kailash pilgrimage circuit. Located in Purang County, Tibet, this monastery offers a serene halt for pilgrims and visitors alike, providing them with the opportunity to engage deeply with the region’s rich cultural and...Read More

Introduction to Tibetan Buddhist Canon The Tibetan Buddhist canon represents a rich and extensive collection of scriptures that serve as the foundation for Tibetan Buddhism, encapsulating the core teachings and philosophy of this ancient tradition. It is divided into two primary parts: the Kangyur and the Tengyur, each playing a vital role in the preservation...Read More

Mount Kailash, known in Tibetan as Gang Rinpoche, is a renowned sacred mountain in Tibet. In Tibetan, its name means “Precious Snow Mountain,” “King of Snow Mountains,” or “Mountain of Deities.” In Sanskrit, it is referred to as the “Abode of Shiva”—the heavenly dwelling of the Hindu god Shiva. Situated in Baga Township, north of...Read More

Introduction to Mount Gurla Mandhata Mount Gurla Mandhata, often referred to as ‘Holy Mother Mountain’ or ‘Goddess Peak,’ holds profound significance in Tibetan culture and spirituality. Located in the western region of Tibet, this majestic peak stands as a testament to the natural beauty and spiritual heritage of the area. With an elevation of 7,694...Read More

Mapam Yutso (Tibetan: ma-pham-gyu-mtsho), also known by various names such as Mapham Yumtso, Mabang Yongcuo, Mafan Lake, and Mapinmudalai Pond, is one of Tibet’s three great sacred lakes and one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world. It lies in Bangre Township, Hor region, northeast of Purang County, in western Tibet’s Ngari Prefecture. Sitting...Read More

Introduction to Lake Rakshastal Lake Rakshastal, also referred to as La’ang Tso, Lion Lake, or Ghost Lake, is a significant geographical feature located in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. Nestled near the western shore of Lake Manasarovar, this remarkable body of water sits at an elevation of approximately 4,500 meters (14,763 feet) above sea...Read More

Introduction to Gongyud Tso Gongyud Tso, situated in the majestic landscapes of western Tibet, is a lake that holds great significance both geographically and culturally. Perched at an impressive altitude of 4,768 meters above sea level, this sacred lake is not only a natural wonder but also a pivotal element of local spiritual beliefs. Spanning...Read More

Introduction to Taranatha’s Legacy Taranatha, a luminary figure in Tibetan Buddhism, is revered for his profound contributions to the Jonang school, particularly through his historical scholarship and spiritual teachings. Born in the 17th century in Tibet, Taranatha’s scholarship is characterized by a deep engagement with Tibetan Buddhist philosophy, history, and practice. His impressive body of...Read More

Introduction to Dolpopa Sherab Gyaltsen Dolpopa Sherab Gyaltsen, a prominent figure in Tibetan Buddhism, was born in the year 1292 in the remote region of Dolpo. His remarkable intellectual and spiritual contributions have earned him the revered title of the ‘Buddha from Dolpo,’ a testament to his mastery in the Buddhist doctrines as well as...Read More

Introduction to Khetsun Yonten Gyatso Khetsun Yonten Gyatso was born in the year 1206 in the region of Dogkarniang, an area nestled within the cultural and spiritual landscape of Tibet. His birth into a family of prominent tantric masters endowed him with access to profound teachings and practices that would significantly shape his spiritual journey....Read More

Introduction to Kunpang Thukje Tsondru Kunpang Thukje Tsondru was an influential figure in the realm of Tibetan Buddhism, known primarily as the founder of the Jonang school. Born in the 12th century in the region of Tsang, Tibet, his background is steeped in the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Tibetan traditions. Tsondru’s early life...Read More

Introduction to the Jonang Tradition The Jonang tradition, an often overlooked yet profoundly significant school of Tibetan Buddhism, has captured the interest of scholars and practitioners alike due to its distinct philosophical framework and unique contributions to the broader Buddhist discourse. Emerging in the 12th century, Jonang Buddhism is particularly noted for its formulation of...Read More

Introduction to Shakya Yeshe Shakya Yeshe is a prominent figure in Tibetan Buddhism, revered for his foundational role in establishing the Sera Monastery and his enduring influence on monastic education. Born into a noble family around the 11th century in Central Tibet, Shakya Yeshe exhibited remarkable intelligence and spiritual aptitude from a young age. His...Read More

Introduction to Thubten Jamphel Yeshe Gyaltsen Thubten Jamphel Yeshe Gyaltsen, revered as the 5th Reting Rinpoche, holds a prominent place in the annals of Tibetan Buddhism. Born in 1912 in the Nyemo region of Tibet, he was recognized early on as the reincarnation of the 4th Reting Rinpoche, making him an essential figure in the...Read More

Introduction Panchen Sonam Drakpa holds a distinguished position in the history of Tibetan Buddhism, particularly within the Gelug monastic tradition. His unique status as the only abbot to oversee the three major Gelug monasteries in Lhasa—Sera, Drepung, and Ganden—marks him as a pivotal figure in this lineage. This role not only underscores his exceptional leadership...Read More

Introduction Jamyang Choejey Tashi Pelden, an eminent figure in Tibetan Buddhism, is renowned for founding Drepung Monastery, one of the largest and most significant monasteries in Tibet. Born in the early 15th century, Tashi Pelden embodies the spiritual lineage and teachings of the Gelug tradition, which emphasizes rigorous monastic discipline, ethical conduct, and philosophical education....Read More

Introduction to Gyaltsab Je Gyaltsab Je, a prominent figure in Tibetan Buddhism, was born in 1364 and passed away in 1432. He is revered as the first Ganden Tripa, a position that solidified his significance within the early Gelug tradition. His contributions to Buddhist philosophy and practice cannot be overstated, as he played a crucial...Read More

Historical Background of the Gelug School The Gelug School, also known as the Yellow Hat Sect, traces its origins back to the early 15th century, significantly marked by the contributions of Je Tsongkhapa. Born in 1357, Je Tsongkhapa was a pivotal figure in Tibetan Buddhism, advocating for a revival of monastic discipline and scholarly rigor....Read More