History

A great variety of forms of religious practice are associated with the word 'Buddhism'.

Their source is the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gotama, who lived and taught in northern India over 2,500 years ago.

The monastic order he founded and personally guided is still flourishing today, the living reflection of his wisdom.

Over the centuries, the Buddha Dhamma* has spread from India throughout the world, adapting to local cultures.

Today there are three main schools: Theravada, 'The teaching of the elders', which thrives in Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Burma and Thailand.