Monks' Walk for Peace concludes in Washington and inspires millions

About two dozen Buddhist monks and their rescue dog completed a 2,300‑mile Walk for Peace from Fort Worth to Washington, D.C., drawing large public gatherings and millions of online followers.

A group of Buddhist monks and their rescue dog completed a multi-month walking pilgrimage to Washington, D.C., arriving after traveling roughly 2,300 miles from Fort Worth, Texas. The Walk for Peace began in October and aimed to share messages of mindfulness, compassion and unity as the monks moved through many states. Along the route, the group greeted crowds, gave blessing strings and held public meditations. The pilgrimage continued despite cold weather and several serious setbacks, and it drew sustained public attention online and in communities they passed through. Key details: - The pilgrims numbered about two dozen and included a rescue dog named Aloka. - The journey covered roughly 2,300 miles and began in October, ending in Washington in February. - The group received large in-person crowds and amassed millions of followers across social platforms. - The walk continued through freezing weather; some monks walked barefoot and the group did not take days off. - The trek faced serious incidents, including a traffic collision that led to one monk losing a leg and a period when Aloka required surgery. - Planned events in Washington included a visit to Capitol Hill, a closing gathering at the Lincoln Memorial, and a public meditation at George Washington University. Summary: The pilgrimage drew wide public response, combining in-person gatherings with a large online audience and emphasizing messages of peace and compassion. The group planned ceremonial stops in the capital, including a request on Capitol Hill and a closing ceremony at the Lincoln Memorial, before returning to Fort Worth after the walk concludes.