Born in Solukhumbu, eastern Nepal, Ven. Ngawang Jigdral Chokyi Wangchuk Rinpoche, or Khenpo Karma Wangchuk, studied Buddhism from a young age with his father, Maratika Lama Ngawang Chophel Gyatso Rinpoche. After completing advanced Buddhist studies, he was recognized and enthroned by His Holiness Kyabje Trulshik Rinpoche, the Supreme Head of Nyingmapa Buddhism, as the Lineage Holder of Maratika and the Abbot of Chimey Takten Choling Monastery in Halesi Khotang, Eastern Nepal.

As the Abbot of Maratika Monastery, he resides in Maratika, where he gives teachings and oversees retreats. Currently, he has spread Dharma teachings across Southeast Asia by establishing Maratika centers in Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, The Netherlands, Russia and many more.