Top 20 Countries with the Highest Buddhist Populations
Top 20 Countries with the Highest Buddhist Populations

Buddhism, one of the world’s oldest religions, continues to thrive in various parts of the globe. Here are the top 20 countries with the highest Buddhist populations:
- China: With a significant Buddhist population, China holds the top spot.
- Japan: Known for its rich Buddhist culture and traditions.
- Thailand: A predominantly Theravada Buddhist country.
- Myanmar: Buddhism is deeply ingrained in Myanmar’s culture and society.
- Vietnam: A country with a significant Buddhist following.
- Sri Lanka: A predominantly Theravada Buddhist nation.
- South Korea: A country with a strong Buddhist tradition.
- Cambodia: Buddhism is the state religion of Cambodia.
- Laos: A Theravada Buddhist country.
- Mongolia: Tibetan Buddhism is prevalent in Mongolia.
- Nepal: A diverse country with a significant Buddhist population.
- India: A country with a long history of Buddhism, though it’s a minority religion now.
- Taiwan: A country with a strong Buddhist influence.
- Singapore: A multicultural country with a significant Buddhist population.
- Malaysia: Buddhism is one of the major religions in Malaysia.
- Bhutan: A predominantly Buddhist country.
- Indonesia: A diverse country with a significant Buddhist population.
- Russia: A country with a growing Buddhist community.
- United States: A country with a diverse religious landscape, including Buddhism.
- Canada: A country with a significant Buddhist population.
Please note that these figures are estimates and can vary depending on different sources.
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Here’s a deeper look into the countries with the highest Buddhist populations:
Major Buddhist Countries
- China: With a staggering number of Buddhists, China holds the top spot. Buddhism in China is diverse, incorporating various schools and practices.
- Japan: Known for its Zen Buddhism and intricate temple complexes, Japan has a deep-rooted Buddhist tradition.
- Thailand: A predominantly Theravada Buddhist nation, Thailand is renowned for its vibrant Buddhist culture, temples, and festivals.
- Myanmar: Buddhism is deeply ingrained in Myanmar’s culture and society. The country has a large number of monasteries and pagodas.
- Vietnam: A country with a significant Buddhist population, particularly in the northern and central regions.
- Sri Lanka: A predominantly Theravada Buddhist nation, Sri Lanka is famous for its ancient Buddhist sites and the teachings of the Buddha.
- South Korea: A country with a strong Buddhist tradition, often blending with Confucian and Shamanistic practices.
- Cambodia: Buddhism is the state religion of Cambodia, and the country is home to many ancient temples, including the world-famous Angkor Wat.
- Laos: A Theravada Buddhist country with a rich cultural heritage.
- Mongolia: Tibetan Buddhism is the dominant religion in Mongolia, with many monasteries and spiritual practices.
Other Notable Countries with Significant Buddhist Populations
- Nepal: A diverse country with a significant Buddhist population, particularly in the Himalayan regions.
- India: While Hinduism is the majority religion, Buddhism has a long history and significant following in India.
- Taiwan: A country with a strong Buddhist influence, especially in terms of Zen Buddhism.
- Singapore: A multicultural country with a significant Buddhist population, influenced by various Buddhist traditions.
- Malaysia: Buddhism is one of the major religions in Malaysia, particularly among the Chinese and Thai communities.
- Bhutan: A predominantly Buddhist country with a unique blend of Tibetan Buddhism and indigenous beliefs.
- Indonesia: A diverse country with a significant Buddhist population, particularly in Bali.
- Russia: Buddhism, particularly Tibetan Buddhism, has gained popularity in Russia, especially in regions like Buryatia and Kalmykia.
- United States: A multicultural country with a growing Buddhist population, influenced by various schools of Buddhism.
- Canada: A country with a diverse religious landscape, including a significant Buddhist community.
It’s important to note that these numbers are estimates and can vary depending on different sources. Additionally, the influence of Buddhism extends far beyond these countries, shaping cultures, philosophies, and spiritual practices worldwide.
Top 20 Countries with the Highest Buddhist Populations