In his younger years, the XVIth Gyalwang Karmapa devoted himself to reflecting on and studying the Buddhist teachings. At Palpung Monastery his root lama, the XIth Tai Situpa Pema Wangchok Gyalpo, offered to the Karmapa the novice, bhikshu, and bodhisattva vows as well as the teachings of the Eight Great Chariots and all the initiations and reading transmissions of the Kagyu lineage without exception. He received all these as water flowing from one vessel to another. From the second ]amgon Kongtrul, Khyentse Ozer, the XVIth Karmapa received initiations, reading transmissions, and profound instructions, which he studied and deeply contemplated. In addition, from many rime (nonsectarian) masters, he received and perfected numerous profound instructions. At his Seat of Tsurphu, the Karmapa engaged in extensive activity for the benefit of the Kagyu lineage. He brought to the path a multitude of practitioners from Tibet, China, and many other countries.

In 1959, due to the political turmoil in Tibet, the Gyalwang Karmapa went to Sikkim. The King and the faithful followers there helped to build the Karmapa's monastery, Shedrup Chokhor Ling in Rumtek. His Holiness gave the complete Kagyu initiations and reading transmissions to his heart sons and to numerous rinpoches and lamas. Turning the wheel of the genuine Dharma, he extended his vast activity throughout the world. In ]anuary of 1981, the XVIth Gyalwang Karmapa gave to his heart son, the XIIth Tai Situpa, a protection amulet with a brocade cover and said, "This is your protection amulet. In the future, it will confer great benefit." On November 5th, 1981, the XVIth Gyalwang Karmapa passed into parinirvana in a hospital located in Zion, Illinois in the United States.