The fifth Gangteng Truelku, Ugyen Gelek Namgyal was born in 1791 to the noble family of Chume Trakhar, amidst many auspicious signs. The 6th Padling Sungtrul Kunzang Tenpai Gyaltsen recognized the young child as the 5th Gangteng Truelku and conferred on him the spiritual name, Ugyen Gelek Namgyal. Soon afterwards, the Truelku was enthroned as the 5th Gangteng Truelku in an elaborate ceremony at the Gangteng Sangngak Choling Goenpa.
The Truelku received the complete sutra, tantra and grammar teachings from the 6th Padling Sungtruel and other recognized masters of the time. After receiving the complete teachings and transmissions of the Padling tradition from the other lineage holders, he meditated and put these teachings into practice.
Having taught the dharma extensively to a wide array of disciples, the Truelku passed away in 1840 at the age of 49.
