A group of Buddhist monks is walking 2,300 miles from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, D.C., to promote peace and compassion. They entered the Atlanta metro area in late December 2025, drawing crowds at stops in Georgia towns and cities.
This pilgrimage, known as the Walk for Peace, started in October 2025 and plans to end in February 2026. The monks aim to inspire unity and mindful living across the country.
Journey from Texas to Georgia
The monks began their trek on October 26, 2025, at the Huong Dao Center in Fort Worth. They have covered hundreds of miles through states like Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama.
Along the way, they faced challenges, including a serious accident in Houston where one monk lost a leg after being hit by a vehicle. Despite this setback, the group pressed on with determination.
Supporters have joined them at various points, offering food, water, and encouragement. The walk highlights themes of resilience and community support.
Recent updates show they crossed into Georgia over the weekend before Christmas 2025. They passed through towns like LaGrange and Newnan, where hundreds gathered to welcome them.
Current Path Through Atlanta Metro
As of December 30, 2025, the monks spent the night in Morrow, Georgia, after a ceremony there. Their route has shifted to include areas inside Atlanta’s I-285 perimeter, updating from earlier plans that kept them outside the city loop.
On December 30, they headed toward Decatur for a lunch stop at Rainbow Park’s Porter Sanford III Performing Arts and Community Center. People could greet them from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Later that day, a peace gathering took place at the Beacon Municipal Complex starting at 2:30 p.m. These events allow locals to interact with the monks and learn about their message.
The path changes based on rest and meal arrangements, with live tracking available for followers. This flexibility helps them connect with more communities.
Crowds have grown larger in Georgia, with one stop in Trilith drawing the biggest audience yet. The monks walk with a rescue dog named Aloka, adding a heartwarming touch to the journey.
Purpose and Impact of the Walk
The Walk for Peace seeks to foster compassion, unity, and mindful living in a divided world. The monks carry no possessions beyond essentials, symbolizing simplicity and focus on inner peace.
They stop for public events to share teachings and encourage dialogue. This effort comes at a time when global tensions run high, making their message timely.
Similar walks have happened before, like peace marches in other countries that brought attention to conflicts. This one ties into broader movements for non-violence and empathy.
Participants say the walk reminds people to pause and reflect amid daily chaos. It also promotes physical and mental health through walking and meditation.
| Day | Date | Location | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 64 | Dec 28 | Hogansville to Peachtree City | Walking along GA-54 Highway |
| 65 | Dec 29 | Morrow | Evening ceremony and rest |
| 66 | Dec 30 | Decatur (Rainbow Park) | Lunch stop, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
| 66 | Dec 30 | Beacon Municipal Complex | Peace gathering at 2:30 p.m. |
| 67 | Dec 31 | Heading toward North Georgia | Planned route updates expected |
Community Response in Georgia
Georgians have shown strong support, with gatherings in places like Troup County and Coweta County. In LaGrange, hundreds welcomed the monks with cheers and donations.
Local media covered their progress, noting viral social media buzz. Posts online highlight the walk’s warning about world imbalance, urging people to offer help.
One resident shared how meeting the monks inspired her family to practice more kindness daily. Such stories show the walk’s emotional ripple effect.
Challenges include weather and safety on roads, but community aid has kept them going. Officials in some towns provided escorts for safe passage.
What Lies Ahead for the Pilgrimage
After Atlanta, the monks plan to continue northeast through Georgia toward South Carolina. Their full route aims for Washington, D.C., by February 13, 2026.
They expect more public stops, building on the momentum from Georgia. Supporters can follow updates to join or donate.
This walk could influence similar efforts, encouraging peace initiatives in communities. As 2025 ends, it serves as a hopeful start to the new year.
The journey reminds everyone that small steps can lead to big changes. Readers, share your thoughts on this inspiring story in the comments below, and pass it along to friends who might want to track the monks’ progress.
