10,000 Greet Buddhist Monks Nearing End of 2,300-Mile Walk

When 19 Buddhist monks set out from Fort Worth, Texas in October 2025, they hoped their message of peace would resonate. This weekend in Richmond, Virginia, an estimated 10,000 people proved it did.

The monks are completing a 2,300-mile journey to Washington, D.C., walking through eight states to call for healing and unity. They celebrated their 100th day on the road in Richmond, where crowds lined the streets chanting "we love you" and "thank you."

Local police officers gave them flowers as they passed. Aerial footage captured thousands of people following in their footsteps through the city streets.

"From above, we can see the extraordinary sight. So many people walking together with us through the streets of Richmond," the monks shared on social media. "Many hearts moving as one, united in the spirit of compassion, mindfulness, and hope."

The journey hasn't been easy. The monks have walked through harsh weather and dealt with injuries along the way.

Venerable Monk Bhikku Pannakara, who leads the group, encouraged his fellow walkers in Richmond. "I know that this journey is difficult, but I truly believe every single one of us can do this," he said. "It's not that hard as long as you believe in yourself."

Virginia's newly inaugurated Governor Abigail Spanberger honored the monks at Richmond's City Hall with her first official proclamation as governor. She declared February 2, 2026 as Walk for Peace Day in the Commonwealth.

"They are serving as a powerful reminder to us that peace is a daily practice that begins within and radiates outward to families, communities, and nations," Spanberger said. She thanked the monks for giving people of all backgrounds the chance to "join in a shared aspiration, to live with greater compassion, understanding, and goodwill."

The Ripple Effect

The monks expect to reach Washington, D.C. around February 10, where they'll gather at the United States Capitol to share their message with the public. What started as 19 people walking has grown into a movement drawing thousands.

The Richmond turnout energized the monks for their final stretch. "To see thousands of people choosing to walk together for peace, to witness so many hearts unified in compassion and hope," they wrote, "this was beyond anything we could have imagined."

Peace isn't just an idea, they reminded everyone watching. It's something we create together, step by step.