At the age of three, Zopa Rinpoche was recognized as the reincarnation of Lama Lawudo. Under the guidance of his teachers, he received a traditional Buddhist education, studying scriptures, philosophy, and meditation practices. He studied during his youth at the monastery of Domo Geshe Rinpoche, until the Chinese invasion in 1959. In 1959, he fled to India, where he met Lama Yeshe, who became his closest teacher.

In 1974, Lama Yeshe and Lama Zopa began traveling the world to give teachings; As a result of these travels, a worldwide network of Buddhist study and meditation centers began to develop – the Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT). After Lama Yeshe's death in 1984, Lama Zopa assumed the role of spiritual director of the FPMT.

Zopa Rinpoche was instrumental in spreading Tibetan Buddhism to the West, his teachings emphasized the importance of integrating Buddha's teachings into everyday life and also the practice of mindfulness, compassion and ethical conduct.

He was known for his warmth, humor, and approachability while presenting profound teachings in an understandable manner.