Buddhist Monks Conclude Peace Journey in D.C.

Wed Feb 11 2026 01:51:27 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A group of Buddhist monks, along with their rescue dog Aloka, arrives in Washington, D.C., after a remarkable 2,300-mile trek advocating for peace, mindfulness, and compassion amid a divided America.

The monks' journey, which began in Texas over three months ago, has captivated the nation. Their advocacy for peace resonates across various communities as they prepare to submit a request to declare Buddha's birthday a national holiday, emphasizing their mission is spiritual, not political. The concluding ceremonies are set to take place at significant sites in D.C.

WASHINGTON (AP) — A dedicated group of Buddhist monks is set to culminate their long journey in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, after walking all the way from Texas in a quest to promote peace and mindfulness.

Throughout their trek, the monks—clad in their signature saffron robes and accompanied by their rescue dog, Aloka—have drawn significant attention on social media, garnering support from communities along the southern roads they've traversed since late October.

“I hope that when this walk ends, those we encountered will continue to practice mindfulness and find peace,” expressed Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara, the group’s leader, who has shared insights on mindfulness during their various stops.

The group plans to mark the completion of their Walk for Peace with gatherings at Washington National Cathedral on Tuesday and the Lincoln Memorial on Wednesday. Washington Episcopal Bishop Mariann Budde, who will host an interfaith reception for the monks, stated, “Their long journey and gentle witness invite us all to deepen our commitment to compassion and the work of peace.”

The monks, having surprised themselves with the reach of their message, have experienced overwhelming support and crowds wherever they traveled, from churches in Alabama to City Halls in Virginia.

Mark Duykers, who will drive 550 miles from Michigan to meet them, remarked on the inspiring unity he’s witnessed: “In these divisive times, we saw entire towns in the Bible Belt come out for these monks—having no idea of what Buddhism is—yet being uplifted and moved by it.”

Starting their journey from the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center in Fort Worth on October 26, 2025, the 19 monks have traversed an astonishing 2,300 miles (3,700 kilometers). Though visiting D.C., they also plan to formally request lawmakers to recognize Vesak—Buddha’s birthday—as a national holiday; however, they stress the primary goal is the spiritual offering of their walk.

Despite facing challenges like severe weather and injuries—including a notable incident near Houston—where local police ensured their safety, the monks maintained their commitment to practice mindfulness through every step. To deeply connect with their surroundings, many, including Pannakara, have opted to walk barefoot for parts of the journey.

The monks' journey carries significance associated with 108 days of walking, a number revered in various spiritual traditions, culminating in a profound commitment to expanding their message of peace beyond their own experience.

With plans to return home by bus after a final appearance at Maryland’s Capitol, they will conclude their journey with a six-mile walk to the temple where this remarkable mission began.