The So and Phuthai are different ethnic groups. The So are classified under the Austroasiatic Family while the Phuthai are under the Tai-Kadai Family. So villages are in the mountains but Phuthai communities are located on high land without water sources. Patriarchy and seniority are the social norms of both groups. So are Buddhists and animists but do not have temples nor conduct animistic rituals. Phuthai are also Buddhists and believe in ancestors’ spirits as well as reincarnation. Both groups use herbal plants to heal sicknesses.