Buddhist Monks Complete Peace Walk to Washington, D.C.

Wed Feb 11 2026 01:08:44 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A group of Buddhist monks finishes their remarkable journey from Texas to Washington, D.C., advocating for mindfulness and peace in a time of social division.

Nineteen Buddhist monks, led by Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara, have reached Washington, D.C., after a 2,300-mile walk aimed at promoting peace and mindfulness. Their journey captivated millions online and garnered support across various communities. During their visit, the monks will hold events at significant landmarks, emphasizing that the walk is a spiritual offering rather than a political movement.

On Tuesday, Buddhist monks will conclude their captivating peace walk in Washington, D.C., having trekked 2,300 miles from Texas. Their journey, which began on October 26, 2025, aimed to evoke mindfulness and peace in a society often overshadowed by division.

Clad in saffron robes, the monks, along with their rescue dog Aloka, have become a symbol of serenity and compassion, gathering enthusiastic crowds along their route. Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara, the group's leader, emphasizes their mission: When this walk ends, I hope people will continue practicing mindfulness and find inner peace.

The monks plan to hold significant events at the Washington National Cathedral and the Lincoln Memorial, where interfaith dialogues will include community leaders sharing the importance of compassion in today's world.

The monks' presence has resonated across the U.S., encouraging diverse communities to come together—many who are unfamiliar with Buddhism have shown admiration for their message of peace. Mark Duykers, who traveled over 500 miles to meet the monks, shared his sentiment, stating, Seeing entire towns come together for these monks is inspirational.

Despite facing challenges during their journey, including injuries, the monks' resilience has strengthened their resolve. They walk barefoot or in socks to connect deeply with the ground, emphasizing their commitment to mindfulness.

Upon concluding their walk, they plan to submit a request urging lawmakers to declare Vesak, or Buddha's birthday, a national holiday. However, Pannakara and others stress that this walk is more than a political statement—it's an invitation to live with peace through everyday actions.

This trek marks the culmination of 108 days of walking, a sacred number in Buddhism that signifies spiritual completion. Their return trip will be less strenuous, as they will travel back to Texas by bus, with a 6-mile walk scheduled to the temple where their journey began.