A group of about 19 Buddhist monks and their rescue dog, Aloka, are walking from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, D.C., to promote world peace. Their planned route spans approximately 2,300 miles across 10 states and is expected to take 120 days to complete.
Here’s what to know about their journey and how to follow along in real time:
Why are the monks walking?
The group has been sharing updates about their journey on their official Walk for Peace Facebook page. According to the Facebook page, the walk is intended to promote the “awareness of peace, loving kindness, and compassion across America and the world.”
Their movement has drawn massive support across social media, attracting more than 575,000 Facebook followers and over 618,000 Instagram followers. The group even has social media accounts for their furry companion, Aloka the Peace Dog, who has some 210,000 followers on Facebook.
They use the Facebook page to share updates, photos, and messages of hope with their supporters. The monks are accepting support along the way. The group welcomes anyone, regardless of their beliefs, to show support by donating, volunteering, or sharing their message.
When did they start walking and how long will it take?
The group left the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center in Fort Worth, Texas, on October 26, 2025, and should arrive in Washington, D.C., in mid-February.
They’re walking at a mindful pace of 20 to 30 miles each day. Along the way, the monks have been greeted by crowds of supporters.
The walking journey has not been without obstacles
In November, while walking about 30 miles east of Houston, Texas, two monks were injured after a car hit one of the group’s escort vehicles.
Venerable Maha Dam Phommasan, a senior monk, was flown by helicopter to a nearby hospital. His injuries were severe, resulting in the amputation of one of his legs. After spending over a month in the hospital, he returned to his home temple in Snellville, Atlanta.
The renaming group members have continued their mission while he offers support from afar. Earlier this week, the group stopped to visit with him when they passed through his city.
Since the incident occurred, local police departments have stepped up to volunteer to escort the monks as they continue their cross-country endeavor.
Where are the monks now?
Today, they’re making their way to Monroe and Good Hope, Georgia, according to an early-morning post on Facebook.
How can I follow the monks along their journey?
Despite encountering some challenges along the way, the monks are now more than halfway through the planned journey.
You can track their progress and see where the monks are in real time on a live interactive map created with Google Maps. Their Facebook page is the best resource for up-to-date information on the daily route.