Kopan Monastery
Ngawang Rigzin Gyatso Rinpoche, or Cherok Lama, was born in the Solo Khumbu region of Nepal in 1995. He was recognised as a reincarnate from an early age. As a two year old boy, he would demand to go to his home “under the rock”. Rinpoche’s persistence brought his mother to Cherok, carrying him on her back. It was here that they met Ven. Ani Ngawang Samden, who helped confirm that he was indeed the reincarnation of the yogi-hermit Kusho Mangden, fondly known as “Cherok Lama”. Rinpoche grew up at Kopan Monastery in Nepal. At the age of eight, he left for Sera Je Monastic University in South India, where he is currently studying for his Geshe degree. Considered a rising star in the Tibetan Buddhist world, his bright smile and personal style bring a warm atmosphere to his teachings.