Buddhist Monks Complete 108-Day Walk Across America

The group's peaceful journey captivated communities across the country.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A group of Buddhist monks in saffron robes completed a 15-week, 108-day walk from Texas to Washington, D.C. on Tuesday. The monks, accompanied by their rescue dog Aloka, have become fixtures on social media as they advocated for peace and mindfulness along their trek, drawing thousands of spectators at stops across the country.

Why it matters

The monks' simple message of peace and mindfulness has resonated with many Americans during a time of political division and conflict. Their journey has captivated communities and invited people to deepen their own commitment to compassion.

The details

The group of monks, led by the Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara, crossed the Chain Bridge into Washington, D.C. on Tuesday morning after spending the previous night in Arlington, Virginia. Though the journey was difficult at times, with one monk having his leg amputated after an escort vehicle was hit by a truck in November, the monks persevered in their mission to spread their message of peace.

  • The monks began their walk in late October 2025 in Texas.
  • They reached Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.

The players

Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara

The soft-spoken leader of the group of Buddhist monks who led the 108-day walk across America.

Aloka

The rescue dog who joined the monks during their trek and became a fixture on social media.

Mariann Budde

The Washington Episcopal Bishop who will help host an interfaith reception for the monks at the Washington National Cathedral.

Mark Duykers

A retired mechanical engineer from Ann Arbor, Michigan who practices mindfulness and plans to travel 550 miles to see the "inspirational" monks.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“My hope is, when this walk ends, the people we met will continue practicing mindfulness and find peace.”

— Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara, Group Leader

“Their long journey and gentle witness invite us all to deepen our commitment to compassion and the work of peace in our communities.”

— Mariann Budde, Washington Episcopal Bishop

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery Employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The monks plan to mark the last days of their walk with outdoor appearances at the Washington National Cathedral on Tuesday and the Lincoln Memorial on Wednesday.

The takeaway

The monks' peaceful journey across America has captivated communities and inspired many to deepen their own commitment to mindfulness and compassion during divisive times.