Buddhist Monks Complete 2,300-Mile Walk to DC for Peace

Thousands gather to welcome the arrival of 19 senior monks after their 15-week journey from Texas

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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A group of 19 senior Buddhist monks, known as Bhikkhus, completed a 2,300-mile walk from the H??ng ??o Vipassana Bhavana Center in Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, D.C. over the course of 15 weeks. Their arrival in the nation's capital was met with thousands of onlookers who came to witness their peaceful procession and partake in the monks' teachings on Vipassana meditation and compassion.

Why it matters

The monks' journey and arrival in D.C. captivated the nation, drawing millions of followers to their social media pages and highlighting the power of peaceful, contemplative practices in an often divisive political climate. Their presence in the nation's capital provided a moment of unity and reflection for residents and visitors alike.

The details

The 19 Bhikkhus, or senior Buddhist monks, came from monasteries around the Theravada Buddhist world to partake in the long-practiced tradition of walking long distances to spread peace. Along their 15-week journey, the monks taught Dharma talks on the Vipassana meditation practice taught by the Buddha. Their procession through the streets of D.C., with thousands of onlookers remaining silent or chanting "Sadhu!" (meaning "wisely done" in Pali), culminated in events at American University's Bender Arena, the National Cathedral, and the steps of the Lincoln Memorial.

  • The monks left the H??ng ??o Vipassana Bhavana Center in Fort Worth, Texas in late 2025.
  • The monks arrived in Washington, D.C. on February 14, 2026 after a 15-week journey.

The players

Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara

The leader of the band of 19 Buddhist monks who completed the 2,300-mile walk from Texas to Washington, D.C.

H??ng ??o Vipassana Bhavana Center

The Buddhist monastery in Fort Worth, Texas where the 19 monks departed from to begin their 15-week journey to the nation's capital.

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What they’re saying

“This is the moment I will remember for the rest of my life. And I hope you do the same.”

— Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara, Leader of the Monks (FreedomsPhoenix)

“In the 40 years I have lived in Washington I have NEVER experienced such beautiful, respectful and loving series of public events. Beautiful silence.”

— Nicole Krakora, D.C. Resident (Facebook)

What’s next

The monks plan to spend several weeks resting and engaging in further teachings and meditation at local Buddhist temples and centers in the Washington, D.C. area before returning to their home monasteries.

The takeaway

The arrival of the Buddhist monks in Washington, D.C. after their 2,300-mile journey provided a powerful moment of unity, peace, and contemplation for the nation's capital. Their presence highlighted the enduring appeal of ancient spiritual practices and the capacity for quiet reflection to bring people together, even in the heart of America's political center.