Dharmapala Thangka CentreTibetan antiques

Chinese astrology played a significant role in the development of Tibetan astrology. From the 11^th century onwards, the 60-year element-animal cycle was in common use. The Indian contribution to astro-science came to Tibet with the introduction of the »Kalachakra-Tantra« by the Kashmiri scholar Somanatha in the 11^th century. It was combined with Chinese material by the early Sakya and Kagyu masters.

Tibetan astrology is not only based on Chinese astrology, but also contains influences from Indian astrology and the indigenous Bon religion. This has led to the emergence of a unique astrological system that plays an important role in Tibetan culture and Buddhism.