The Nyingma tradition is one of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism. It is actually comprised of several distinct lineages that trace their origins back to Padmasambhava, the legendary founder of Tibetan Buddhism. The name "Nyingma" means ancient, as Nyingma followers see themselves as maintaining the earliest Vajrayana teachings, which incoporates many elements of the indigenious Bön religion.

Notable modern Nyingma teachers include Kyabje Dudjom Rinpoche (c. 1904-1987), Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, Khenpo Choga Rinpoche, filmmaker Khyentse Norbu (also known as Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse Rinpoche), and Penor Rinpoche.