A Dhagpo lama is a drupla who completely dedicates his life to spiritual activity within the heart of the Dhagpo Kagyu Mandala. A lama will have developed qualities enabling him or her to transmit the teachings they have received and to guide beings on the path to enlightenment.

The qualities of a lama are are shown through their actions and the recognition of their peers. The term "lama" is more than a mere title as it expresses the qualities of compassion, kindness and wisdom developed by the practitioner. A lama is an authentic example for beings and a source of inspiration for practice.

Dhagpo lamas and druplas continue their daily personal practice in order to remain continually in the lineage's stream of blessing. Lamas continue to work on themselves spiritually through regular retreats, study and involvement in community life and activities.

The responsibilities of Dhagpo Kundreul Ling's lamas and druplas include: the transmission of Gendun Rinpoche's teachings, the training of the student practitioners, the organisation and supervision of retreats, and the management of the monastic hermitages and various affiliated centres.

Gendun Rinpoche himself designated the lamas who would be responsible for the main positions within the community.

He named three people to be in charge of the monastic sangha: Lama Tsonyi as the general co-ordinator, seconded by the female Lamas Kemtcho and Djangchub who are responsible for the women's monastic hermitage.

He also named two spiritual leaders:

Lama Anila Rinchen and Lama Yeshe who are assisted by Lamas Chönyi and Samdroup for the women's retreats, and by Lamas Tenzin and Lhundrub for the men's retreats.

A Dhagpo drupla is an ordained or lay practitioner who has completed one or more three-year retreats under the direction of Lama Gendun Rinpoche or his lamas, and who has put the teachings received into practice. This person has received and practised the entire transmission of a yidam as well as the Six Yogas of Naropa.

Furthermore he or she keeps the three levels of vows: vows of ethical conduct, the Bodhisattva vows, and the samayas. On coming out of retreat, a drupla's training continues within the community aided by a tutor.

This training allows the practitioner to develop towards the activity of teaching by becoming a lama or to opt for another activity according to individual aspirations and qualities. One becomes a lama depending on the activity that one develops. As druplas deepen their commitment and their understanding of the Dharma, increasingly confidence is shown by their students.

Finally it is the "Lama Council" (a council of peers) that makes the decision about whether to give drupla the status of "lama" with full responsibilities.