Kagyu Ling - celebrating 50 years

Kagyu Ling is marking a major milestone in 2025 as it celebrates the 50th anniversary of its foundation.

Lama Jampa Thaye established Kagyu Ling, Manchester’s first Buddhist Centre, under the direction of Karma Thinley Rinpoche in 1975. Over the following years Lama Jampa established further Buddhist centres and groups in the UK, Europe, USA and Mexico, under the name Dechen (Tibetan - great bliss).

Kagyu Ling Buddhist Centre is now the main base of Kagyu Dechen Buddhism north west, with a network of groups offering opportunities for people to learn about Buddhism and practise meditation.

Lama Jampa Thaye is our main teacher and visits regularly to give teachings and initiations. Many other renowned masters of Tibetan Buddhism have visited and in 2024 Kagyu Ling hosted the third visit of His Holiness 17th Karmapa, Trinley Thaye Dorje, the head of the Karma Kagyu tradition.

Kagyu Ling runs regular meditation classes and organises major teachings. There is also a network of groups across the north west region offering meditation sessions. We always welcome newcomers who want to find out more about Buddhism and meditation. Find out more in the events section and the regular classes page.

Kagyu Ling Buddhist Centre
Manor Drive, Chorlton, Manchester

Timeline

  • 1975

    Kagyu Ling is established under the direction of Karma Thinley Rinpoche and Lama Thaye on Reynard Road in Chorlton.

  • 1975

    Kalu Rinpoche visits.

    The practice of Chenrezik becomes central to the programme.

  • 1977

    Karma Thinley Rinpoche visits Kagyu Ling. He gives teachings and appoints Lama Jampa as his spiritual representative.

    His Holiness the 16th Karmapa visits with Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche and performs the Vajra Crown ceremony.

  • 1988

    Kagyu Ling holds meditation classes and weekly Chenrezik practice in various venues before buying a property in Macefin Avenue, Chorlton.

  • Since 1997

    Lama Jampa has been giving teachings and initiations at Kagyu Ling over the last 50 years. The annual shedra (seminary) teaching of major Kagyu texts has been held each year since 1997.

  • 2002

    Karma Thinley Rinpoche has visited Kagyu Ling many times including in 2002 when he gave the initiation of Dorje Phakmo.

    The new centre was blessed by His Holiness the 41st Sakya Trizin.

  • 2007

    Kagyu Ling moves to its current location at 45 Manor Drive, Chorlton, building on its programme of weekly dharma activities and social events, including the annual garden party.

  • 2009

    His Holiness the 17th Karmapa, Trinley Thaye Dorje, makes his first visit to Kagyu Ling.

  • 2012

    His Holiness 17tth Karmapa makes his second visit to Kagyu Ling and bestows teachings and initiations.

  • 2014

    His Eminence 14th Shamar Rinpoche visits Kagyu Ling and teaches the Seven Points of Mind Training.

  • 2024

    His Holiness 17th Karmapa visits for the third time. He bestows many teachings and initiations, and blesses the new stupa at Kagyu Ling.