Is Theravada Buddhism different from Mahayana and Tibetan Buddhism?
The main views of Buddhism, such as the eight steps of the path to enlightenment and the four noble truths, remain strong throughout all of the different schools. The differences come in culture. Mahayana is believed to have been developed in India and now is followed more in northern areas while Theravada is followed more in the southern areas. When it comes to practicing at a temple you need not worry about what school the temple belongs to, for if you take refuge in the three jewels, you are taking refuge in Buddhism, not the that temple. Regardless of that, you should find a Sangha that shares your beliefs. Mayahanna and Therevada are the two MAIN schools but there are many others. For more on the difference between the two go to http://www.religionfacts.com/buddhism/fastfacts/differences_theravada_mahayana.
