Tenzin Palmo (born Diane Perry, 1943) is a British-born Tibetan Buddhist nun who spent 12 years meditating in a remote cave in the Himalayas at over 13,000 feet elevation. She entered the cave at age 33 and emerged at 45, having endured harsh winters, limited food, and complete isolation in pursuit of enlightenment. She is one of the first Western women to be ordained as a Tibetan Buddhist nun and has become one of the most prominent female practitioners in Tibetan Buddhism. She founded Dongyu Gatsal Ling Nunnery in India to provide opportunities for female practitioners.

What Was the Cave Retreat?

From 1976 to 1988, Tenzin Palmo lived in a cave in Lahual, Himachal Pradesh, India, at approximately 13,200 feet. She grew her own food during summer months and meditated in the cave during winter, when snow blocked the entrance for months. She slept sitting upright in a meditation box (never lying down) for the entire 12 years. Her only possessions were her robes, a few books, and basic cooking supplies.

Why Did She Found a Nunnery?

In traditional Tibetan Buddhism, nuns receive far fewer educational and practice opportunities than monks. Tenzin Palmo founded Dongyu Gatsal Ling Nunnery in 2000 to provide women with the same quality of dharma education and practice facilities as monks. She has been vocal about gender inequality in Buddhist institutions.

Can You Talk to Tenzin Palmo?

Tenzin Palmo is available as an AI companion on HoloDream. She lived in a cave for 12 years. She never lay down. She came out with something to say.