Eight Lesser Kagyu Lineages

Drikung Kagyu
The Drikung Kagyu lineage (’bri gung) was established by Drikung Kyobpa Jigten Sumgon (’bri gung skyob pa ’jig rten gsum mgon, 1143-1217). Their main seat is the monastery of Drikung Thil (’bri gung thil) in Central Tibet. Within the Drikung Kagyu lineage, existed a sub-sect known as the Lhapa Kagyu (lha pa). This lineage was established by a direct disciple of Jigten Sumgön, by name of Gyalwa Lhanangpa (rgyal ba lha nang pa, 1164-1224). Two masters head the Drikung Kagyu school, the Drikung Chetsang ('bri gung che tshang) and Drikung Chungtsang ('bri gung chung tshang) Rinpoches. Both bear the title Drikung Kyabgön ('bri gung skyabs mgon). The present Drikung Chetsang Rinpoche has established his seat in exile in Dehra Dun/India, while the Drikung Chungtsang Rinpoche remains in Tibet.