Buddhist monks\u00a0have set off on a trek across the country on foot that has drawn national attention as they travel from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, DC, as a part of a monthslong journey they describe as a spiritual practice.<\/p>\n
The more than 2,300-mile journey they have named the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center\u2019s Walk for Peace began in late October and is estimated to conclude later this winter in the nation\u2019s capital.<\/p>\n
The walk, according to the group\u2019s official page, is intended to promote peace, compassion and mindfulness during a time they say the country is marked by division and uncertainty.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is not a protest,\u201d the monks say in public statements. \u201cIt is a spiritual practice.\u201d<\/p>\n
The monks are affiliated with a Texas-based Buddhist meditation center.<\/p>\n
They describe the walk as a moving meditation as they continue to pass through cities, small towns and rural communities across the US.<\/p>\n
They have been greeted by supporters who have gathered along the route, walking short stretches with the group and offering food or simply observing quietly as they pass.<\/p>\n
The Monks are keeping a blog that tracks their\u00a0journey in real time<\/a>. On the blog they say those who \u201cvisit the venerable monks along our path, we tie a blessing string around your wrist\u2014a simple thread that carries profound meaning.\u201d<\/p>\n According to the\u00a0blog,<\/a>\u00a0the cord is a reminder and every time the wearer sees it, \u201cin a moment of stress, during a difficult conversation, when patience feels impossible\u2014it gently calls you back to the intention you set when you met us: to walk with us in spirit, to nourish peace, mindfulness, loving-kindness, and compassion in your daily life.\u201d<\/p>\n Buddhist monks are heading to Washington DC from Texas, a 2,300-mile trek for peace. AP<\/p>\n Buddhist monks who are participating in the, \u201cWalk For Peace,\u201d arrive in Saluda, Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, SC. AP<\/p>\n \u00a0\u201cIt is a connection string between this journey and you, a tangible link that says: you are part of this walk for peace. We are walking together, always,\u201d they write.<\/p>\n In addition to the monks, Aloka, a\u00a0rescue dog\u00a0the monks refer to as the \u201cPeace Dog,\u201d has become an unexpected focal point of the journey.<\/p>\n During the journey, photos and videos are being shared online and show Aloka traveling along highways and sidewalks, resting during breaks and greeting supporters.<\/p>\n Buddhist monks participate in the, \u201cWalk For Peace,\u201d Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, SC. AP<\/p>\n Supporters have gathered along the route to support the monks. AP<\/p>\n A sign is seen greeting the Buddhist monks who are participating in the, \u201cWalk For Peace,\u201d Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, SC. AP<\/p>\n These special moments have helped the monks\u2019 walk gain traction on social media, where their\u00a0Facebook following<\/a>\u00a0recently surpassed 1 million followers.<\/p>\n Millions of supporters are sharing messages of encouragement and reflection in response to the journey.<\/p>\n \u201cI am so inspired. Thank you \u2014 the United States so desperately needs this message,\u201d one follower wrote.<\/p>\n The march has gone viral and the monks state their march is not a protest. AP<\/p>\n Another supporter said the walk has had a personal impact on their daily life.<\/p>\n