Vientiane, Laos, 1995 |Buddhism is the primary religion of Laos. The Buddhism practiced in Laos is of the Theravada tradition. Lao Buddhism is a unique version of Theravada Buddhism and is at the basis of Lao culture. Lao Buddhist are very devout and almost every young Lao man joins a monastery, or temple, for at least a short period of time. Many men also become monks for the rest of their lives.

Most people donate food to the monks to gain merit and improve their karma. Even though these Buddhist practices can hurt the economy, most Lao people are willing to sacrifice. The temples of Laos were once seen as "Universities" for monks. Lao monks are highly respected and revered in Lao communities. Vientiane, Laos, 1995.
© Arne Walderhaug