Chokyi Wangchuk, the Sixth Shamar Rinpoche (1584-c.1635), was recognized at an early age by his principal guru, the Ninth Gyalwang Karmapa, Wangchuk Dorje. Demonstrating swift accomplishment in his training and tremendous proficiency in debate and scholarship, he became one of the most renowned panditas of his era. He traveled and taught extensively throughout Tibet, China, and Nepal, and performed vast activity for the benefit of beings.

Just as the Golden Garland of the Kagyu succession continued with Chokyi Wangchuk himself, he in turn recognized the tenth incarnation of the Gyalwang Karmapa, Choying Dorje, who then became his principal disciple.