A lama of the Nyingma school, he served as the ceremonial head of the lineage and oversaw its administrative affairs in exile.
At the age of 18, he entered retreat, spending a total of fourteen years in solitary meditation during his studies.
He excelled in his studies and discovered the terma (hidden treasure) of the Compassionate One, "Jigten Wangchuk Pema Garwang.
On February 9th, 2008 (the 3rd day of Chotrul Duchen), Mindrolling Trichen Jurme Kunzang Wangyal died at his home in India at the age of 78.
In 2003, the government of Tibet-in-exile requested that he assume responsibility for the administrative affairs of the Nyingma school as one of the main throne holders,[5] succeeding the retiring Penor Rinpoche.