25/03/2026
Message from the Tibetan Community UK
Lama Chime Tulku Rinpoche (1941–2026)
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Lama Chime Tulku Rinpoche la, who left us yesterday afternoon at the University College Hospital, London at the age of 85.
Born in 1941 in Kham,Tibet,Lama Chime Tulku Rinpoche received his early education at the Benchen Monastery.Following the Chinese invasion of Tibet,he fled into exile in India in 1959.In 1965,he moved to the United Kingdom,where he would go on to make a lasting and meaningful contribution to the preservation and growth of Tibetan Buddhism
Rinpoche founded Kham House—later renamed Marpa House—in Ashdon, Essex,which became the first Tibetan Buddhist centre in England.His efforts helped establish a strong foundation for Tibetan spiritual practice in the UK.
In addition to his spiritual work,he served for 16 years at the British Library as a curator in the Asian and Tibetan manuscript section, contributing significantly to the preservation and understanding of Tibetan cultural heritage.
Lama Chime Tulku Rinpoche was also an active and respected member of the Tibetan community in the UK.He played a vital role in the formation and development of the Tibetan community in Britain,offering guidance,leadership, and unwavering support over many decades.
During this difficult time, our thoughts,prayers and heartfelt condolences are with his family,relatives,students and all who were touched by his life and teachings.
May he rest in peace. We pray for his swift and auspicious reincarnation.
Shared from the Tibetan Community UK
