Every morning at 5:30, as the first light touches the 600-year-old monastery, Khyungpo Tulku begins his day with prayer and study. Recognized at age four as the third incarnation of the Khyungpo Tulku of Tashi Gepel Monastery, he’s been steeped in Tibetan Buddhism’s sacred traditions since 2002.

Now, as he pursues the highest degree in Buddhist studies at Tashilhunpo, he’s also finding ways to connect with the world beyond the monastery’s walls. “I was so young when I entered monastic life that I missed out on learning Mandarin properly,” he says with a warm smile. “Now, I make time to watch documentaries, read books, and search the internet for anything I don’t understand. Language opens doors to the world.”

Far from the stereotype of an isolated monk, Khyungpo Tulku is a product of the 1990s, as comfortable with a smartphone as he is with sacred texts. Back in 2010, long before it was common for spiritual leaders to go digital, he started sharing his thoughts online. Today, his posts — often pairing stunning photos of Tibet’s landscapes with reflections on life and Buddhist teachings — reach over half a million followers. “I love photography,” he says. “It’s how I capture what I see and feel. When people comment on my posts or share their thoughts, it feels like we’re learning together.”

But Khyungpo Tulku’s impact goes beyond the digital sphere. Since being elected to the Xizang Political Consultative Conference in 2012, he’s been a passionate advocate for rural communities, pushing for better healthcare and training for local doctors. He’s also visited schools across the region, championing access to quality education. “Buddhism isn’t just about personal growth,” he explains. “It’s about helping others. When I see progress in rural healthcare or education because of proposals I’ve supported, it feels like I’m making a difference.”

Khyungpo Tulku’s story is one of balance — honoring the timeless wisdom of Tibetan Buddhism while embracing the tools and challenges of today. From quiet moments of meditation to public advocacy, from ancient rituals to online posts, he’s showing how a young lama can uphold tradition while engaging with the modern world. His work to foster harmony and offer spiritual guidance is a beacon for others, proving that faith can be a dynamic force for good in an ever-changing society.

As he continues his path, Khyungpo Tulku reminds us that devotion isn’t confined to the past — it’s a living, breathing practice that can light the way forward.