Theravada Buddhism is the largest religion in Laos, which is practiced by 66% of the population. Lao Buddhism is a unique version of Theravada Buddhism and is at the basis of ethnic Lao culture. Buddhism in Laos is often closely tied to animist beliefs and belief in ancestral spirits, particularly in rural areas.
Pha That Luang stupa in Vientiane
Bhaddanta Lokaratthi (Ven. Boun-Than Bouppharath Dhammañāṇo), official title Somdet Phra ฺBuddhajinros Sakalamahāsanghapāmokkha, Sangharājā of Laos reads a speech at the opening of the Laos-Cambodia session of the Buddhist Council (Chaṭṭa Sangāyanā), 1955-04-28.
Wat Xieng Thong temple in Luang Prabang, Laos
An 18th-century Buddha statue in the "calling for rain" posture at Haw Phra Kaew
Vientiane is the capital and largest city of Laos. Comprising the five urban districts of Vientiane Prefecture, the city is located on the banks of the Mekong, right at the border with Thailand. Vientiane was the administrative capital during French rule and, due to economic growth in recent times, is now the economic center of Laos. The city had a population of 1,001,477 as of the 2023 Census.
Image: Vientiane Patuxai 0003
Image: 20171118 Vientiane 3220 Dx O
Image: Vientiane Wat Sisaket 02 Sim gje
Image: Pha That Luang Vientiane (Laos) I
