Buddhist monks have embarked on a cross-country trek that has drawn national attention as they travel from Fort Worth, Texas to Washington DC as part of a months-long journey they describe as a spiritual practice.
The more than 2,300-mile journey they named the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center’s Walk for Peace began in late October and is expected to conclude later this winter in the nation’s capital.
The trip, according to the group’s official page, is aimed at promoting peace, compassion and consideration at a time they say the country is full of division and uncertainty.
“This is not a protest,” the monks said in a public statement. “It’s a spiritual practice.”
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Buddhist monks participating in the “Walk in Peace,” arrive in Saluda, Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, SC. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)
The monks are affiliated with a Texas-based Buddhist meditation center.
They describe the journey as a moving meditation as they continue through cities, small towns and rural communities across the US
They were greeted by fans who gathered on the track, walking short distances with the team and offering food or simply watching in silence as they passed.
Monks keep a blog that tracks their travels in real time. On the website they say that those who “visit venerable monks on our way, we tie a blessing cord around your wrist—a simple cord with a deep meaning.”
According to the blog, the thread is a reminder and every time the wearer sees it “in a time of stress, during a difficult conversation, when patience seems impossible – it calls you gently to return to the purpose you set when you met us: walking with us in spirit, nurturing peace, consideration, loving kindness, and compassion in your daily life.”
“It is a chain of communication between this journey and you, a tangible link that says: you are part of this journey of peace. We walk together, always,” he wrote.
Buddhist monks participating in “Walk in Peace,” are seen with their dog, Aloka, on Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, SC. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)
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In addition to the monks, Aloka, a rescue dog the monks refer to as the “Dog of Peace,” has become an unlikely destination for the trip.
During the tour, photos and videos were shared online and showed Aloka walking along highways and footpaths, taking breaks and greeting supporters.
These special occasions have helped the monastic movement gain traction on social media, with their Facebook following recently surpassing one million followers.
Millions of supporters are sharing messages of encouragement and reflection in response to the journey.
“I’m so inspired. Thank you – the United States really needs this message,” one fan wrote.
One supporter said that traveling has affected their daily life.
Audrie Pearce greets Buddhist monks participating in the “Walk For Peace,” Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in Saluda, SC. (AP Photo/Allison Joyce)
“Praying for you all night. You have opened a light inside me that makes me want to be a kind, peaceful person. I think now before I speak and be more aware of my breathing,” the fan wrote. “Your trip has a lot of thoughtful people who bring hope to our country and peaceful thoughts all day long. It’s a beautiful, moving trip.”
Some say that this message affects them at a time of turmoil in the country.
“The message of peace resonates with many in America during these terrible times,” commented one supporter.
By now, Buddhist monks have reached most of the country, prompting internet searches and interest in travel, the monks’ mission and destination in Washington. The videos went viral as the group continued to head east.
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They continue to insist that the tour is non-political and open to people of all backgrounds, describing peace as “not a place but a way of life.”
The monks say their message remains the same: peace begins with individual action – one step at a time.
