Dudjom Rinpoche is remembered above all for giving a complete Nyingma Vajrayāna path in which Dzogchen, devotion, and ethical discipline form a single, integrated whole. Within that vision, Dzogchen or Atiyoga stands as the summit: he emphasized direct introduction to the nature of mind and the practices of trekchö and tögal as the swift means to recognize rigpa and sustain that recognition in all circumstances. Yet this highest view was never presented in isolation; it was grounded in a life of study, meditation, and careful preservation of the Nyingma lineage, including rigorous training in both sūtra and tantra. For him, authentic realization depended on unbroken transmission, traditional retreat practice, and the training of qualified lineage holders who could carry the teachings forward.

At the same time, he placed great weight on the so‑called “preliminary” practices, treating ngöndro as both foundation and path in its own right. Refuge and prostrations, the cultivation of bodhicitta, Vajrasattva purification, mandala offerings, and especially guru yoga were repeatedly emphasized as indispensable preparations for more advanced practices. Guru yoga and devotion to the spiritual teacher, particularly in the form of Guru Rinpoche practice, were not framed as mere ritual, but as the living gateway through which blessings and recognition of the nature of mind become possible. In this way, devotion, ethical discipline, and the highest view were understood as mutually reinforcing rather than separate stages.

As a great tertön, Dudjom Rinpoche also gave special prominence to the terma tradition. He revealed and transmitted extensive treasure cycles, including the Dudjom Tersar and other profound teachings, and encouraged practitioners to engage these as fresh, complete paths that remain fully rooted in the ancient Nyingma heritage. This work of revelation went hand in hand with a lifelong commitment to preserving and propagating the broader Nyingma corpus, especially in times of hardship for Tibetan culture and religion. Through this combination of Dzogchen, ngöndro, guru yoga, terma practice, and lineage preservation, his emphasis rested on a path that is at once profound in view, meticulous in method, and deeply concerned with the continuity of authentic transmission.