• Buddhist monks complete a 2,300-mile Walk for Peace in Washington, D.C.
• The journey began on October 26, 2025, in Texas and lasted 108 days.
• Thousands gathered alongside the route, promoting a message of compassion.
• Despite challenges, including injuries from an accident, the monks remained undeterred.
• They plan to advocate for Vesak as a national holiday during their time in D.C.

A group of Buddhist monks has successfully completed their 2,300-mile "Walk for Peace," concluding their journey in Washington, D.C., where they were warmly welcomed following a trek that began in Texas over three months ago. Accompanied by Aloka, a rescue dog, the monks' journey has resonated with many people across the U.S., particularly during a time of political division and unrest, as they promoted a simple yet profound message of peace and compassion, according to NPR, Reuters, and BBC.

The monks, led by the Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara, began their journey on October 26, 2025, from the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center in Fort Worth, covering nine states and raising awareness of mindfulness. Their commitment fostered connections with communities, leading to thousands coming out to support them in various locations, especially amid challenging winter weather conditions, according to South China Morning Post, Los Angeles Times, and BBC.

During their two-day stay in Washington, the monks are expected to visit significant sites such as the Washington National Cathedral and the Lincoln Memorial. They will also advocate to lawmakers for Buddha's birthday, Vesak, to be recognized as a national holiday. Notably, Bhikkhu Pannakara emphasized that while they will submit the request, their walk's primary goal was to inspire peace and mindfulness among individuals, according to Reuters and Los Angeles Times.

Challenges marked their journey, including a serious accident where their escort vehicle was struck by a truck outside of Houston, injuring two monks, one of whom required an amputation. This incident tested their resolve, yet the group continued their mission, highlighting the importance of overcoming adversities in the pursuit of peace, according to NPR, South China Morning Post, and Reuters.