The monastery was founded in 1180 (or 1178) CE[1] by Taklung Thangpa Tashi Pal (1142–1210), on a site previously inhabited by a famous Kadampa lama, Potowa Rinchen Sel, who was a disciple of Dromton (1005–1064), Atisha's chief disciple.

[2][3][4] Through the efforts of Taklung Thangpa Tashi Pal, and his immediate successors, the number of monks eventually increased to 7,000.

An eastern branch, Riwoche Monastery in Kham, which was founded by the fourth preceptor, Sangye On, and it gradually gained in importance as the Gelugpa monasteries of Sera and Drepung extended their influence at Taklung.

[7] Taklung was badly damaged during the Cultural Revolution but has since been partially restored.

[8][9] The massive 13th-century Tsuklakang and the Markang or Red Temple now just form extensive ruins.