In 1992, one of Rinpoche’s senior disciples sought his permission to undertake a retreat. Rinpoche then requested his eldest son, Lama Rinpoche Kuenzang Dorji, to oversee and manage this matter.
With the blessing and permission of his father, Lama Rinpoche Kuenzang Dorji led the first batch of five meditators. They stayed in small bamboo huts that were individually constructed by the practitioners themselves.
In 1995, after completing the traditional three-year retreat (Losum Choesum), Rinpoche recognized the urgent need for a proper Drupkhang — a dedicated place for meditation and deity practice. Under his initiative, and with the support of his three brothers, a new Drupkhang named Sang-Ngag Cholling was established, accommodating seven practitioners.
From 1997 onward, Drupdra Sang-Ngag Cholling hosted the second batch of seven meditators. The retreat center is located approximately 500 steps west of the main monastery.
In 2003, at the request of the late Ven. Lama Sonam Peljor (Meme Tulku) and the local community of Lauri, the Thegchok Shedrupling Meditation Center was established. After the passing of Ven. Lama Sonam Peljor in 2005, the center came under the care of Ven. Tulku Tandin Jatsho. It is situated above Lauri village and requires a one-day walk north from the main monastery.
In 2007, the Pema Yoesel Ling Meditation Center in Dhajukwoong, Barkalangnang was founded at the request of followers and the local community.
It is located in the eastern village of Tashithangye and can be reached by a half-day walk from the main monastery.
Today, all three meditation centers host no fewer than seven practitioners at a time, coming from diverse backgrounds, ages, and genders. Currently, practitioners provide their own food, although initiatives are underway to offer full support and necessary accommodations.
In the near future, Rinpoche plans to establish a proper kitchen system to serve all practitioners and further enhance the retreat environment.