Ethnic Groups

The Lao government officially recognizes 49 ethnic minorities. But traditionally, the Laotians themselves simply divide the entire population into three categories dependant upon the elevation at which they live. Despite this, one can find any number of unrelated ethnic groups residing together whatever the lay of the land.

The Lao Loum, or Lowland Lao, live on the lowest elevations with the most fertile farmland. They are related to the Thai of Thailand, and the Shan of Burma. The Lao Loum make up approximately 50-60% of the population and are predominantly Theravada Buddhists, as well as practicing animism to a lesser degree.

The Lao Theung, or Lao from the hills, comprise several minor groups, the most numerous among them being the Khamu of northern Laos. The Htin people, also from the North, are expert weavers of bamboo due to a cultural ban on using metal. The Lao Soung, or Highland Lao, live at the highest elevations in the country. The Hmong are the most numerous of these people. Their embroidered apparel is one of the most colourful to be found in Laos. Their handmade silver jewelry is also highly prized by collectors.

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