Buddhist Monks Arrive in Washington, D.C., Completing 2,300-Mile ‘Walk for Peace’
A group of Buddhist monks arrived in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, marking the conclusion of a rigorous 2,300-mile journey on foot that began in Texas last year. The pilgrimage, known as the “Walk for Peace,” culminated in a solemn gathering at the Washington National Cathedral, where the monks were welcomed by interfaith leaders and supporters after more than three months on the road.
The procession, led by the Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara of the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center in Fort Worth, Texas, embarked on the trek on October 26, 2025. Dressed in traditional saffron robes, the monks walked through ten states, braving diverse weather conditions ranging from the humid heat of the South to freezing temperatures and snow in the Mid-Atlantic. They were accompanied throughout the journey by Aloka, a mixed-breed rescue dog who became a fixture of the group’s social media updates.
On Tuesday, the group crossed the Chain Bridge into the District of Columbia before proceeding to the National Cathedral. There, they were greeted by the Right Reverend Mariann Budde, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, for an interfaith reception. The arrival in the nation’s capital was timed to coincide with the 108th day of their journey, a number considered sacred in Buddhist tradition, representing spiritual completion and the wholeness of existence.
The walk was not without significant challenges. In November, while the group was traveling near Dayton, Texas, a truck struck their escort vehicle, resulting in injuries to two monks, one of whom required hospitalization. Despite the accident and the physical toll of walking approximately 20 miles a day—often barefoot or in simple sandals—the group persisted, emphasizing that their mission was apolitical and solely dedicated to promoting compassion.
“We walk not in protest, but to remind Americans that peace is not a destination. It is a practice,” Bhikkhu Pannakara stated upon arriving in the region. “Peace resides within each of us.”
The monks are scheduled to make their final ceremonial stop at the Lincoln Memorial on Wednesday before returning to Texas. Organizers have indicated that following the conclusion of the events in Washington, the group will travel back to Fort Worth by bus. Upon their return, they plan to walk the final six miles to their home temple, completing the full circle of their pilgrimage.
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