ABOUT THE Founder
A Destiny Intertwined with Maitreya: The Story of H.E. Trulku Kunga Tenzin Rinpoche
The life of His Eminence Trulku Kunga Tenzin Rinpoche is a tapestry woven from ancient lineage, childhood wonder, and a royal mandate to build a sanctuary for the future. Born into a prestigious family of Jamgoen Trulkus (reincarnations) revered throughout Bhutan, Rinpoche’s path has been guided by a singular, luminous thread: a profound karmic bond with Buddha Maitreya.
A Scholar’s Path and a Global Mission
Rinpoche’s natural aptitude led him through a rigorous and disciplined education from a young age. He received the complete transmissions of the Drukpa Kargyu lineage from Bhutan’s 68th and 69th Je Khenpos, later refining his mastery of philosophy, logic, and meditation under the direct guidance of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.
By the age of twenty-four, Rinpoche was ordained as an Acharya, teaching at the Buddhist University of Bhutan to shape the next generation of practitioners. Following years of intensive retreat, his spiritual leadership and realization were further recognized with his appointment as the Abbot of Druk Namgyal Choling Goenzin Dratsang.
Bridging Cultures
Rinpoche’s vision has always reached far beyond the borders of the Kingdom. To bridge the gap between cultures and make the Dharma accessible to a global audience, he mastered Mandarin, bringing sacred teachings to life for students across Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, and beyond.
A prolific author, his works, ranging from the 21 Taras to the biography of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, earned him the prestigious Toedtsi Jim Award from the Central Monastic Body, a testament to his tireless service and significant national contribution to the Buddha Dharma.
ROYAL ENDORSEMENT
The Royal Commission
In 2024, His Majesty the King of Bhutan formally affirmed Rinpoche’s lifelong commitment to the benefit of all sentient beings. Following his appointment to lead the Sangchen Dorji Lhendrup Nun’s Buddhist College, a historic Royal Edict was issued on October 17, 2025. His Majesty entrusted Rinpoche with his most significant responsibility to date: leading the construction of the Gelephu Maitreya Temple. This appointment marks the culmination of Rinpoche’s years of academic excellence and spiritual devotion, placing him at the heart of a project that will serve as a beacon of peace for the modern world.