On Tuesday, February 10, 2026, a group of Buddhist monks completed a 108-day walk from Texas to Washington D.C., concluding their “Walk for Peace” that has resonated across the United States as a poignant call for mindfulness and harmony in a time of division. The monks arrived in the nation’s capital to large crowds, capping a 2,300-mile journey that began in late October.
The walk started on October 26, 2025, from the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center in Fort Worth, Texas. Nineteen monks from Theravada Buddhist monasteries around the globe embarked on this arduous trek, walking single file along highways and through towns. Led by the Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara, the group aimed to advocate for peace through simple, mindful steps, emphasizing that their journey was a spiritual offering rather than a political movement.
Throughout the 15-week trek, the monks faced numerous challenges, including harsh winter conditions. In November, near Houston, their escort vehicle was struck by a truck, resulting in injuries to two monks. One of them, Venerable Maha Dam Phommasan, had to have his leg amputated but later rejoined the group near Washington, demonstrating resilience and commitment. Despite such hardships, the monks pressed on, often walking barefoot or in socks to stay grounded and present.
Public response to the walk has been overwhelmingly positive, with the monks gaining a massive following on social media and drawing thousands of spectators along the route. In Washington, they were greeted with respectful silence at American University’s Bender Arena, where Pannakara spoke about the walk’s meaning. The Metropolitan Police Department facilitated their entry with rolling road closures, ensuring safety for all.
Upon arrival in D.C., the monks visited the Washington National Cathedral for an interfaith service hosted by Episcopal Bishop Mariann Budde. Flanked by faith leaders from various traditions, Pannakara expressed gratitude and hope for continued peace. The group also plans to submit a request to lawmakers to declare Vesak, Buddha’s birthday, a national holiday, though they stress this is not the primary goal of their walk.
The walk’s duration of 108 days holds deep significance in Buddhism, representing spiritual completion and cosmic order. This sacred number underscored the monks’ dedication, as they practiced Vipassana meditation throughout, focusing on mind-body connection to understand impermanence and suffering. Their journey included a rescue dog named Aloka, who became a beloved companion and symbol of light.
As the walk concludes, the monks’ message of inner peace rippling outward has inspired many. Followers like Jackson Vaughn, who joined them in a wheelchair, shared how the experience highlighted human connection and compassion. The monks’ gentle witness has offered a respite from conflict, inviting individuals to cultivate peace in their daily lives.
The monks are expected to return to Texas by bus, arriving in Fort Worth on Saturday. From there, they will walk the final 6 miles to their temple, symbolically closing the loop. Their “Walk for Peace” may have ended, but its impact continues, encouraging a nationwide reflection on mindfulness and unity in an increasingly divided society.
