In modern day, Buddhism has reached every corner of the world. Because of its popularity, Dhamma followers approach the teachings according to their way. Among all divisions, there are three main branches can be seen in the dispensation of Buddha Dhamma. They are: Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana.
THERAVADA BUDDHISM
Theravada means the way of elders and called Southern Buddhism. They are considered the oldest form of Buddhism and follow the teachings as described in the Tripitaka (The Three Baskets of Dhamma). Not distorting the words of the Buddha, they continue to follow the path of enlightened monks and nuns from the time of the Buddha. This form of Buddhism is practiced in the southeast countries like Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and some parts of India and Nepal. But it has reached around the globe with the help of Buddhist monks and lay teachers.
MAHAYANA BUDDHISM
It means the greater vehicle and called Northern Buddhism because it is being practiced in China, Korea, Vietnam, and Japan.
VAJRAYANA BUDDHISM
It is also known as Tibetan Buddhism which is practiced in Tibet, Bhutan, Mongolia and some parts of Russia.
