First Pema Norbu
The first Drubwang Pema Norbu Rinpoche was born in 1679. Two prophecies predicted his birth and assisted in his recognition. One prophecy was made by the hidden treasure revealer Ratna Lingpa (1403-1478). In one of his revelations it is written, "To the south of Kathog, a child with the name Norbu will be born." Another prophecy was made by the famous treasure revealer Jatsön Nyingpo (1585-1656). In his Maning revelation it says: "To the south of Kathog, a child with astonishing wisdom and compassion will be born. His name will be Norbu and if he connects with the protector Gonpo Maning (Mahakala) revelation, spiritual attainments will be swiftly achieved."

When Pema Norbu was still quite young, he met the treasure revealer Migyur Dorje. From Migyur Dorje, he received permission to practice the Namchö revelations. At the age of twenty-one, he met the great Vidyadhara and first throneholder of Palyul monastery, Kunzang Sherab. From Kunzang Sherab he received as many important teachings as he could.

Pema Norbu's principle root guru was Pema Lhundrup Gyatso, the second throne holder of The Palyul Lineage. From him Pema Norbu received full ordination and complete transmissions of Maha, Anu and Ati Yogas, Kagye, Gongdu, the terma revelations of Ratna Lingpa, Migyur Dorje, Jatsön Nyingpo and many others.

On account of his perfect accomplishment, particularly in the trekchö and tögal practices of Dzogchen, he was called Drubwang -- "Powerful Master of Accomplishment." He became the third throne holder of Palyul, passing away in 1757. Many of his disciples attained full realization in their lifetime.