About KPC

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With roots in the land of Tibet, and now America, Kunzang Odsal Palyul Changchub Choling (KPC) Buddhist temple was founded by American born H.E. Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo Rinpoche. She vowed to uphold the Palyul lineage within the Nyingma tradition of Vajrayana Buddhism under the guidance of His Holiness Pema Norbu (Penor) Rinpoche

Kunzang Odsal Palyul Changchub Chöling (KPC) — “Glorious Dharma Continent of Absolute Clear Light” — is a hub of compassionate activity with a mission to inspire people to improve the world and end suffering for the benefit of all beings.

Jetsunma was the first Western woman to be enthroned as a lineage holder in Tibetan Buddhism. KPC has been operating since 1985 and includes locations in the United States (Maryland and Sedona Arizona) and Australia. Buddhist teachings and empowerments (spiritual transmissions) are offered by Jetsunma and other teachers for all levels of the Buddhist path. KPC centers provide ongoing study, practice and practical ways to apply Buddhism as a beneficial way of life. All are welcome.

HH Penor Rinpoche with Mugsang Kuchen Rinpoche, Tulku Thupzang, Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo and Khenpo Tenzin Norgay in 2004

Seated: H.H. Penor Rinpoche. Standing from left: Mugsang Kuchen Rinpoche, Tulku Thupzang Rinpoche, Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo Rinpoche, Khenpo Tenzin Norgay Rinpoche. 2004

Visitors to the Amitabha Stupa in Sedona Arizona often make offerings and prayers.

The Amitabha Stupa, located in Sedona, Arizona

Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo at her Enthronement as a Palyul Lineage Holder, by H.H. Penor Rinpoche, in 1988 at KPC Maryland.

Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo at her enthronement ceremony, 9-24-1988.

Our Mission Statement

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Our Mission is to alleviate suffering through compassionate activity in the world by:
  • Making Buddhist teachings available
  • Offering a place of spiritual refuge including sites of pilgrimage and prayer
  • Offering prayers and spiritual practices to those in need
  • Nurturing the community beyond our boundaries
  • Caretaking the natural environment under our custodianship

KPC is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) charitable organization

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Kunzang Palyul Choling (KPC) is a Buddhist Temple in the Nyingma Tradition, founded by H.E. Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo Rinpoche under the guidance of H.H. Penor Rinpoche. KPC is a Platinum-level Guide Star Exchange participant, demonstrating our commitment to transparency through sharing information. KPC is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Federal Tax ID # 52-1501476. All donations are fully tax-deductible.

Our Dharma Practices and Events

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There are daily practices and prayers along with frequent dharma teachings. You can participate from anywhere online.