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Buddhist Monks Complete 2,300-Mile 'Walk for Peace' Across America
The group arrived in Washington D.C. after a journey spanning nine states over three months.
Published on Feb. 10, 2026
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A group of two dozen Buddhist monks completed a 2,300-mile 'Walk for Peace' across America, arriving in Washington D.C. on Tuesday. The monks began their journey in Texas over three months ago, braving winter storms and even a vehicle accident that injured several, to spread their message of peace, loving kindness, and compassion. The walk garnered support from millions on social media and crowds who came out to meet the monks along the way.
Why it matters
The monks' peaceful walk across America comes at a time of growing tension and division in the country, providing a unifying message of unity, kindness, and spirituality. Their journey highlights the power of grassroots movements to inspire and bring people together around shared values.
The details
The Buddhist monks, led by spiritual leader Bhikkhu Pannakara, walked through Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia before arriving in the nation's capital. Despite facing obstacles like a vehicle accident that injured several monks, the group continued their trek to honor their original message of peace. Along the way, they were met by supportive crowds who came out to offer flowers and messages of encouragement.
- The monks began their 'Walk for Peace' journey in Texas over three months ago.
- They arrived in Washington D.C. on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
- The monks will end their journey in nearby Annapolis, Maryland on Thursday, February 12, 2026.
The players
Bhikkhu Pannakara
The spiritual leader of the 'Walk for Peace' and one of the two dozen Buddhist monks who completed the 2,300-mile journey across America.
Bob Anderson
A 74-year-old resident of Gloucester County, Virginia who came out to support the monks during a stop in Richmond on February 3.
Josh Stein
The governor of North Carolina, who thanked the monks for bringing hope to millions with their message of peace, equality, justice and compassion.
What they’re saying
“We walk not to protest, but to awaken the peace that already lives within each of us. The Walk for Peace is a simple yet meaningful reminder that unity and kindness begin within each of us and can radiate outward to families, communities, and society as a whole.”
— Bhikkhu Pannakara, Spiritual leader of the Walk for Peace
“You are inspiring people at a time when so many are in need of inspiration.”
— Josh Stein, Governor of North Carolina
“I feel like in our country and in our world right now that you have to show your support for peace in every possible way you can. And so this is a great way to do so. That's why I'm here.”
— Bob Anderson, Resident of Gloucester County, Virginia (gvwire.com)
What’s next
The monks will meet with spiritual, city and other leaders when they arrive in Washington, where they will visit the National Cathedral and host a meditation retreat.
The takeaway
The Buddhist monks' 'Walk for Peace' across America serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of grassroots movements to spread messages of unity, compassion and spiritual renewal, even in times of division and tension.
