The Tsopu Drubchen incarnation line began in the eighteenth century with the First Tsopu Drubchen, Choying Rangdrol, who was recognized as an incarnation of the famous Katok yogi Drubtob Namkha Gyatso. The incarnation line is likely named for Tram Tsopu, a meditation site where Choying Rangdrol is said to have practiced. The lineage is associated with Katok monastery.