Stepping onto the path of Kagyu’s Mahamudra feels like slipping into a timeless current of direct experience. Over the centuries, several distinct sub-schools branched out—each one adding its own flair while staying true to that heart-awakening essence.

Karma Kagyu
• The most internationally recognized, led by the Karmapa. With the 18th Karmapa’s recent enthronement and digital sangha initiatives, this lineage continues to ride the wave into the 21st century, blending ancient meditation methods with online retreats.

Drikung Kagyu
• Founded by Jigten Sumgön in the 12th century, it’s known for the “Throne of Jigten” gatherings and a rich tradition of texts on Mahamudra combined with Lamrim (stages of the path).

Drukpa Kagyu
• Carrying forward Tsangpa Gyare’s vision, this lineage places strong emphasis on devotional practice and community harmony. It’s especially vibrant in Bhutan, where it serves as the state religion.

Taklung Kagyu
• Taklung Thangpa’s lineage focuses on rigorous retreat, encouraging practitioners to sit with Mahamudra “as if nothing else exists.” The echo of its cliff-side hermitages still resonates today.

Phagdru Kagyu
• Founded by Phagmo Drupa, this branch acted as a springboard for many later lineages. Its blend of Mahamudra instruction and chetana (mind-contemplation) laid groundwork for other sub-schools.

Barom Kagyu
• Barom Repa emphasized close, teacher-to-student transmission. Even now, small retreat communities carry forward his concise, heart-to-heart teachings.

Tshalpa Kagyu
• Known for Tsangnyön Heruka’s eclectic style, it wove together rich rituals, poetry and Mahamudra pointers—often described as ‘poisoned arrow straight to the heart.’

Shangpa Kagyu
• Sometimes called the “secret” Kagyu, from the teachings of Niguma. Though numerically smaller, its clarity on lucid meditation and “Six Yogas” still inspires practitioners worldwide.

Together, these sub-schools resemble a garden of mirrors: each reflecting the shining core of Mahamudra, yet offering a unique angle on how to rest the mind in its own pure nature. Wherever the journey leads, the timeless invitation remains the same—turn awareness inward, let go of chattering thoughts, and glimpse the clarity that’s always been there.