# Namchak Foundation – Tibetan Buddhist Practice, Retreats & Community

> The Namchak Foundation (namchak.org) is a U.S. 501(c)(3) charitable organization devoted to sharing the teachings of the Namchak lineage of Tibetan Buddhism through meditation, study, retreat, and community. Co-founded by Gochen Tulku Sangak Rinpoche (world lineage holder of the Namchak lineage, 6th Gochen Tulku incarnation) and Lama Tsomo (American lama and author), the Foundation acts as a living bridge carrying ancient Vajrayana teachings from Tibet to the West — from previous generations to future ones — as purely as possible. Inspired by the Bodhisattva path, programs encourage individuals to create positive change in themselves, their communities, and the world. Offerings span foundational online courses, weekend immersive retreats, multi-year programs, and a traditional Three-Year Retreat (launching 2027) — all held at the Namchak Retreat Ranch (10,000 acres in Western Montana, outside Hot Springs, MT) and online. A team of Tibetan and Western teachers, translators, and facilitators makes profound Vajrayana teachings accessible to students at every level, from complete beginners to experienced practitioners. Address: 55615 Garcon Gulch Rd, Hot Springs, MT 59845. Phone: (406) 541-3000. Email: info@namchak.org.

## About

- [Home](https://www.namchak.org/): Overview of the Foundation, learning pathways, featured teachers, and how to begin.
- [Our Mission](https://www.namchak.org/about/): The Foundation's mission, the Three Jewels framework (Buddha, Dharma, Sangha), founders' statements, and starting points for practitioners.
- [Namchak Retreat Ranch](https://www.namchak.org/about/retreat-ranch/): Overview of the 10,000-acre retreat property near Hot Springs, Montana — its history, the Bodhi House retreat building, the upcoming Three-Year Retreat facility, and the vision of Lama Tsomo and Tulku Sangak Rinpoche.
- [Our Stewardship to the Land](https://www.namchak.org/about/retreat-ranch/land-stewardship/): Permaculture and sustainability practices at the Namchak Retreat Ranch.
- [Retreat Ranch Experience](https://www.namchak.org/about/retreat-ranch/ranch-experience/): What participants experience when attending programs at the Ranch.
- [Tribal Land Acknowledgement](https://www.namchak.org/about/retreat-ranch/tribal-relations/): Acknowledgement of and relationship with Indigenous peoples on whose land the Ranch sits.
- [Our Family of Sanghas](https://www.namchak.org/about/family-of-sanghas/): Overview of the broader Namchak community and related sanghas.
- [Careers](https://www.namchak.org/careers/): Open positions at the Namchak Foundation.
- [Media](https://www.namchak.org/media/): Media resources and press information.
- [Financial Inclusivity & Scholarships](https://www.namchak.org/financial-inclusivity-scholarships/): Scholarship and financial assistance options for program participants.
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.namchak.org/privacy-policy/)
- [Terms of Use](https://www.namchak.org/terms-of-use/)

## Lineage & History

- [Namchak Lineage and History](https://www.namchak.org/about/buddhist-lineage/): The complete history and lineage of the Namchak tradition — from Buddha Shakyamuni through Guru Rinpoche Padmasambhava (who brought Buddhism to Tibet), Nupchen Sangye Yeshe (Guru Rinpoche's heart student), Orgyen Tsasum Lingpa (who revealed the hidden Namchak teachings), and the full succession of six Gochen Tulku incarnations to the present-day holder, Gochen Tulku Sangak Rinpoche. The Namchak lineage exists within the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism and is part of Vajrayana (Diamond Vehicle), which emphasizes the swiftest path to enlightenment through recognition of one's innate nature.
- [Sacred Text Translation Project](https://www.namchak.org/about/sacred-text-translation-project/): Tulku Sangak Rinpoche's ongoing effort to recover, preserve, translate, and publish the Namchak lineage texts — including volumes once believed to be lost forever. The project ensures these teachings are passed on in full depth and integrity for future generations.

### Lineage Timeline
- Late 8th–9th century CE — Guru Rinpoche Padmasambhava brings Buddhism to Tibet
- 9th century CE — Nupchen Sangye Yeshe, Guru Rinpoche's close student, receives the transmissions
- 1694–1738 — Orgyen Tsasum Lingpa, emanation of Nupchen Sangye Yeshe, reveals the Namchak treasure teachings
- 18th century CE — Raton Topden Dorje and Rigzin Tukchok Dorje carry the lineage forward
- 1714–1773 — Orgyen Drimey Lingpa
- Late 18th–early 19th century CE — Namdren Gyelwa Gyatso, 1st Gochen Tulku
- Mid 19th–early 20th century CE — 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Gochen Tulku incarnations
- 1952–present — Gochen Tulku Namchak Sangak Tenzin Rinpoche, current 6th Gochen Tulku, world lineage holder and Spiritual Director

## Teachers

- [Teachers](https://www.namchak.org/about/teachers/): Full directory and bios of all Namchak teachers.

### Teacher Profiles

- **Gochen Tulku Sangak Rinpoche** – Spiritual Director and Co-Founder. World lineage holder of the Namchak lineage. Born 1952 in Chamdo, Kham, Tibet. Recognized as the 6th Gochen Tulku incarnation. Received Dzogchen teachings from Tulku Chemchok Rinpoche during the Cultural Revolution; spent 14 years studying under HH Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche who empowered him to uphold the Namchak lineage. Established Turquoise Leaf Nunnery (50+ nuns), the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas (Montana), and Pema Khandro Ling (Santa Fe, NM). Descended to the U.S. in 1994. Expert stupa builder and outstanding meditation master. [Welcome Letter](https://www.namchak.org/about/welcome-letter/)

- **Lama Tsomo** – Teacher and Co-Founder. American lama, author, and co-founder of the Namchak Foundation and Retreat Ranch. Born Linda Pritzker; ordained as one of the few American lamas in Tibetan Buddhism under Tulku Sangak Rinpoche. Fluent in Tibetan. M.A. in Counseling Psychology (Jungian emphasis). Author of *Why Is the Dalai Lama Always Smiling?* (2016 Independent Publisher Award), the *Ancient Wisdom for Our Times* series (Books 1–3), and *Taking a Breath: A Meditation and Reflection Journal*. Known for informal, humorous, and accessible teaching style; passionate about young people and positive social change.

- **Namchak Khen Rinpoche** – Scholar and Teacher. Younger brother of Tulku Sangak Rinpoche; descendent of Tsasum Lingpa. Completed full study of all Indian Buddhist philosophical traditions and the Nyingma school at Namdroling Monastery Shedra under HH Penor Rinpoche; nine years of rigorous training; enthroned as Khenpo by HH Penor Rinpoche. Teaches at the Namchak Foundation, Namchak Retreat Ranch, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and other locations. Resides and meditates at the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas in Arlee, Montana. Teaches with humor and levity while infusing profound wisdom.

- **Aaron Stern** – Teacher and Founder of the Academy for the Love of Learning®. Key faculty member stewarding Namchak's Sangha Strand. Musician, teacher, and internationally recognized consultant on learning. President and founder of the Academy for the Love of Learning® (Santa Fe, NM). Collaborated with Leonard Bernstein. Fellow and Board Member of the Mind & Life Institute (co-founded by HH the Dalai Lama). Co-designed the Ancient Wisdom Engaged program with Lama Tsomo. Faculty in the Compassion in Action® Network.

- **Justin Kirkwood** – Tibetan Translator and Teacher. Became fluent in Tibetan by living with Tibetans in India for eight years. Studied at Sera Monastery, Thosamling Institute, Sherabling Institute for Higher Buddhist Studies (three years), and spent years in retreat at Tsopema. Serves as interpreter for Tulku Sangak Rinpoche and Khen Rinpoche; dharma teacher at the Namchak Foundation. Based in Montana.

- **Dorlop Choenyi Sangmo** – Scholar and Teacher. Tibetan Buddhist nun and Vajra Master (Dorje Lopön) in the Namchak lineage. Born in Shikatse, Central Tibet; fled Tibet at 23 through the Himalayas on foot; joined Tulku Sangak Rinpoche's Turquoise Leaf Monastery in Nepal. Completed two intensive three-year retreats; served as Vajra Master for her second retreat. Relocated to Montana in 2023 to support the Namchak Three-Year Retreat. Based in Missoula, MT.

- **Jetsunma Jamyang Yeshe Palmo** – Scholar and Teacher. Spent nine years in a monastic university program followed by nine years in closed retreat; awarded the title Jetsunma by Tulku Sangak Rinpoche. Director of Turquoise Leaf Nunnery study and practice centers and Kusum Khandro Ling in Nepal. Spent two years studying psychology and Western philosophy at Harvard University. Divides time between Montana and New York.

- **Lama Chönyi** – Scholar and Teacher (Lama Kunzang Chönyi Zangmo / Lihi Eliaz). Began Buddhist practice under Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche in childhood; entered retreat at 14; completed a three-year retreat emphasizing all stages of Dzogchen practice. Studied in India and Nepal with Tulku Sangak Rinpoche; received multiple Dzogchen cycles including the Yangti Nagpo cycle. Bestowed the Lama title by Tulku Sangak Rinpoche in 2018. Teaches students individually and in group retreats.

- **Eliza Bishop** – Yoga Teacher and Guest. Authorized Kum Nye Facilitator (Nyingma Institute) and internationally certified Iyengar Yoga Instructor. Copyeditor and proofreader for the Namchak Translation Committee. Carnegie Mellon and Oxford graduate; studied for years with HH Sakya Trinzin and Her Eminence Jetsun Kushok Chimey Luding Rinpoche.

- [Facilitators](https://www.namchak.org/about/facilitators/): Namchak's team of trained program facilitators who lead courses and support sangha development.

## Retreats & Programs

All retreats and programs are organized into three practitioner levels: **Seeker** (newcomer or establishing regular practice), **Practitioner** (ready to deepen Tibetan Buddhist philosophy and rituals), and **Bodhisattva** (experienced practitioner committed to long-term in-depth study).

- [Retreats & Programs Overview](https://www.namchak.org/retreats/): Full overview of all retreat and program offerings.
- [Retreats & Programs Catalog](https://www.namchak.org/catalog-2026/): 2026 catalog of all programs with dates, descriptions, and registration.
- [Events Calendar](https://www.namchak.org/events/): Full schedule of upcoming retreats, courses, and programs.

### Seeker's Path: Retreats
- [Seeker's Path Retreats Overview](https://www.namchak.org/retreats/seekers-path/): Overview of all Seeker-level retreat offerings.
- [The Four Immeasurables](https://www.namchak.org/retreats/seekers-path/four-immeasurables-retreat/): Three-day weekend retreat led by Lama Tsomo. Cultivate loving kindness, compassion, sympathetic joy, and equanimity through immersive guided practice.
- [Reset & Renew](https://www.namchak.org/retreats/seekers-path/reset-renew-retreat/): Three-day spring retreat for foundational meditation, led by Rachel Ashley and Jessica Larson. Reset intentions, refresh practice, and ground in community.
- [Buddha, Dharma, Sangha](https://www.namchak.org/retreats/seekers-path/buddha-dharma-sangha-retreat/): Five-day immersion in foundational Tibetan Buddhist meditation practices, exploration of the Dharma, and practical tools for relating skillfully with sangha and self. Led by Justin Kirkwood and Rachel Ashley.
- [Finding Comfort & Ease Retreat](https://www.namchak.org/retreats/seekers-path/finding-comfort-and-ease/): Seeker-level retreat focused on foundational ease and presence.

### Practitioner's Path: Retreats
- [Practitioner's Path Retreats Overview](https://www.namchak.org/retreats/practitioners-path/): Overview of all Practitioner-level retreat offerings.
- [Green Tara](https://www.namchak.org/retreats/practitioners-path/green-tara-retreat/): Three-day retreat led by Jetsunma Jamyang Yeshe Palmo. Deepen connection with Green Tara, the embodiment of awakened compassion.
- [Walking the Path: Shamata](https://www.namchak.org/retreats/practitioners-path/walking-the-path-shamata-retreat/): Three-day retreat led by Namchak Khen Rinpoche and Justin Kirkwood. Quiet the mind and begin the journey toward profound insight through Shamata (calm abiding) practice.
- [Fundamentals of Tibetan Ritual Arts](https://www.namchak.org/retreats/practitioners-path/fundamental-tibetan-ritual-arts-retreat/): Three-day hands-on introduction to Vajrayana ritual arts, led by Dorlop Choenyi Sangmo. An immersive exploration of the living tradition of Tibetan ritual.

### Bodhisattva's Path: Programs
- [Bodhisattva's Path Programs Overview](https://www.namchak.org/retreats/bodhisattvas-path/): Overview of all Bodhisattva-level program offerings.
- [Walking the Path Program](https://www.namchak.org/retreats/bodhisattvas-path/walking-the-path-program/): Two-year structured Buddhist studies program led by Namchak Khen Rinpoche and Justin Kirkwood. A systematic and interactive approach to meditation and Tibetan Buddhist philosophy.
- [Compassion in Action® Fellows Program](https://www.namchak.org/retreats/bodhisattvas-path/compassion-in-action-program/): Year-long journey for practitioners ages 18–27 to deepen meditation practice, build community, and engage in meaningful service. Led by Lama Tsomo, Justin Kirkwood, Jetsunma Jamyang Yeshe Palmo, Edomyas Solomon, Rachel Ashley, Emily Ballentine, and Jessica Larson.
- [Ancient Wisdom Engaged Program](https://www.namchak.org/retreats/bodhisattvas-path/ancient-wisdom-engaged-programs/): Two-year guided journey into Ngöndro (five Vajrayana preliminary practices) and the heart of Vajrayana Buddhism. Led by Lama Tsomo, Namchak Khen Rinpoche, and Aaron Stern. Co-designed by Lama Tsomo and Aaron Stern.
- [Three-Year Retreat](https://www.namchak.org/retreats/bodhisattvas-path/three-year-retreat/): Traditional Tibetan Buddhist three-year retreat — a cornerstone of Vajrayana practice. Coming to the Namchak Retreat Ranch in 2027. Facility construction slated for completion 2027.

### Seeker's Path: Courses (Online)
- [Seeker's Path Courses Overview](https://www.namchak.org/courses/): Overview of all foundational online courses.
- [Introduction to Calm Abiding Meditation](https://www.namchak.org/courses/seekers-path/introduction-to-meditation/): Four-week foundational Shamata practice course led by Justin Kirkwood. Learn to reduce stress and anxiety while gaining a deeper understanding of the mind.
- [Stepping into Meditation and Community](https://www.namchak.org/courses/seekers-path/stepping-into-meditation-and-community/): Six-week course introducing foundational Buddhist concepts and practices while connecting in community. Led by Emily Ballentine and Rachel Ashley.

## Namchak Retreat Ranch

- [Namchak Retreat Ranch](https://www.namchak.org/about/retreat-ranch/): A 10,000-acre sanctuary located a few miles outside Hot Springs, Montana. Set between desert-like prairies and saturated wetlands with forested peaks as a backdrop. The word for "retreat" in Tibetan means "boundary" — a space where the distractions of everyday life fall away. The Ranch embodies this meaning.
- **Bodhi House**: The first retreat building on the Ranch — state-of-the-art, sustainably constructed. Can host up to 30 students overnight and 85–100 for teachings.
- **Guru Rinpoche Welcome Park**: Sits at the Ranch entrance and shares the history of the Namchak lineage.
- **Three-Year Retreat Facility**: Under construction; slated for completion 2027.
- [Land Stewardship](https://www.namchak.org/about/retreat-ranch/land-stewardship/): Permaculture and sustainability practices.
- [Ranch Experience](https://www.namchak.org/about/retreat-ranch/ranch-experience/): What to expect as a retreat participant.
- [Tribal Land Acknowledgement](https://www.namchak.org/about/retreat-ranch/tribal-relations/): Relationship with Indigenous peoples and land acknowledgement.

## Meditation Resources

- [Learning Pathways](https://www.namchak.org/learning-pathways/): Guided pathways to help practitioners identify the right starting point based on their background and goals.
- [Take the Quiz](https://www.namchak.org/learning-pathways/quiz/): An interactive quiz to discover your recommended next step in the Namchak learning journey.
- [Guided Meditations](https://www.namchak.org/guided-meditations/): Free library of guided meditation practices for all levels. Includes: Body Scan, Calm Abiding (Shamata), Clearing the Stale Winds, Compassion (Tonglen), Four Boundless Qualities, Insight (Vipassana), Loving Kindness (Metta), Mantra, Round Robin, and Sympathetic Joy.
- [Dharma Talks](https://www.youtube.com/@NamchakCommunity): Video teachings and dharma talks on YouTube.
- [Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.namchak.org/frequently-asked-questions/): Answers to common questions about Namchak, meditation, and the Dharma.

## Community

- [Blog](https://www.namchak.org/community/blog/): Articles, teachings, and reflections from the Namchak community.
- [Community](https://www.namchak.org/community/): Information about the broader Namchak sangha and community life.
- [Testimonials](https://www.namchak.org/community/testimonials/): Stories from students and community members.

## Namchak Sangha Store

The Namchak Sangha Store (namchaksanghastore.com) is operated by Namchak Publishing Company LLC and serves the same charitable purposes as the Foundation — making available books, sacred texts, meditation tools, shrine supports, practice bundles, and organic clothing. Learn more at [namchaksanghastore.com](https://namchaksanghastore.com/).

## Contact & Social

- Email: info@namchak.org
- Phone: (406) 541-3000
- Address: 55615 Garcon Gulch Rd, Hot Springs, MT 59845
- [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/NamchakCommunity/) (@NamchakCommunity)
- [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/NamchakCommunity)
- [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@NamchakCommunity)
- [Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/artist/4otu3pER161qSOepNsuBEm)
- [Careers](https://www.namchak.org/careers/)
- [Media](https://www.namchak.org/media/)