| When you speak of Thailand, instantly a | | | | Buddhist tradition, which ranges from animism |
| picture of people with small eyes and happy | | | | to worshiping of ancestors. However, the |
| smiling faces appear before you. They have | | | | Muslim community is also a big religious |
| the typical south-east asian look. However, | | | | group in Thailand. The Muslim population is |
| their ways, their way of speaking, their | | | | mostly prevalent in places south of Chumphon. |
| beliefs, and their culture are a symbol of | | | | The Malay group is present in the southern |
| their true identity. | | | | part of Thailand. In addition to these |
| | | | communities and groups, there is a sprinkling |
| Thailand mostly comprises of people who speak | | | | of Christians, Hindus, and Sikhs as well. |
| Tai language. Tai speaking people are spread | | | | |
| over Central Thai, the Northeastern Thai, the | | | | Based on their belief and main Buddhist |
| Northern Thai, and the Southern Thai. Central | | | | tradition, Thai people pay a lot of respect |
| Thai is the area where one finds most Tai | | | | and homage to their ancestors. It is the core |
| speaking people. | | | | of their spiritual belief and faith. They are |
| | | | very generous and hospitable people. Social |
| In addition to Tai speaking people, there are | | | | hierarchy plays a very important role in |
| Chinese who have blended seamlessly with the | | | | their lives. They touch the feet of their |
| Thai. Other cultures include Malays, Mon, | | | | elders as a mark of respect and to seek their |
| Khmer, and even Vietnamese. | | | | blessing. The elders play a key role in any |
| | | | important decisions or ceremonies. |
| Majority of Thais follow the Theravada | | | | |