His Holiness is the incarnation of the Bodhisattva of Compassion Chenrezi, Guru Shantarakshita (manifestation of Padmasambhava), Naropa and Gampopa. In particular, he is the supreme head of the Drukpa lineage.

His Holiness took birth in 1963 near the Tso Pema Lake in Rewalsar, India. His father is Bairo Rinpoche, a great Nyingma Master of the Kathok school. The Gyalwang Drukpa, while still in his mother’s womb, would recite mantras of the Buddha Amitabha.

As a young child, Nenang Pawo Rinpoche gave his blessings to the Gyalwang Drukpa and indicated that he is special indeed. The Gyalwang Drukpa would often proclaim that he was a high Lama to his parents. Through the advice of the Dalai Lama, the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa, Dudjom Rinpoche and the Sakya Trizin, the 12th Gyalwang Drukpa was found and recognized at three years old. He was able to correctly identify the possessions of his predecessor and name his attendants and disciples by heart, as if he already knew them.

The Gyalwang Drukpa was first ceremoniously welcomed at Khamtrul Rinpoche’s monastery. Then Rinpoche was enthroned in the presence of the Dalai Lama in Dharamshala. He was officially enthroned at his own monastery in Darjeeling in 1967.

His Holiness was first educated by Thuksey Rinpoche, the Regent of the Drukpa Lineage, and also by his father Bairo Rinpoche. He likewise received extensive transmissions, religious instructions, teachings, vows and training on various arts and philosophies under masters such as Khenpo Noryang, Dudjom Rinpoche, Pawo Rinpoche, Trulshig Rinpoche, Ontrul Rinpoche, Dodrupchen Rinpoche, Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche and His Holiness the Dalai Lama.