The Theravada order of bhikkhunis, founded by Buddha's stepmother, has died out,* but there are many women who have renounced the homelife to become nuns.
*Since this text was written, the Theravada order of bhikkhunis has been reivived. The first modern ordination of Sri Lankan women took place in Sarnath in 1996. A grand international ceremony took place in BuddhaGaya in 1998. The order is now recognized in most countries.