Buddhist Monks Enter Virginia on Walk for Peace, Richmond Ahead

by | Feb 1, 2026 | COMMUNITY, CULTURE, NEWS

UPDATE February 1st, 2026: The monks are in Chester, VA today. You can see that HERE.

The Buddhist monks participating in the Walk for Peace, a 2,300 mile walking pilgrimage across the United States, crossed into Virginia on January 28, marking Day 95 of their journey

As of Wednesday, the group is traveling through Gasburg, Virginia, after entering the state from North Carolina. Virginia is the eighth state on the route. Based on their current pace, the monks are expected to reach the Richmond area around February 1, though exact timing may shift due to weather or route adjustments.

Current Status as of Day 95 (1/28/2026)

Todayโ€™s Day 95 itinerary includes:

  • An undisclosed lunch stop (watch the Live Map for timing and location).
  • Overnight rest at Pleasant Hill Christian Church, 175 Ankum Rd, Gasburg, VA 23857, with visiting hours 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Youโ€™re encouraged to check the Live Map and their social updates for the most current route info, as adjustments happen day to day. 

The walk began in late October 2025 in Fort Worth, Texas, and is scheduled to conclude in Washington, D.C. The monks are traveling on foot through multiple states as a form of walking meditation, promoting peace, mindfulness, loving-kindness, and compassion. 

The walk has attracted attention across multiple states, with people gathering along the way to watch, give encouragement, or walk short stretches with the group. The monks hope their presence inspires reflection and connection as they travel toward their final stop in Washington, D.C., where part of their intention is to ask Congress to recognize Vesak, the day of Buddhaโ€™s birth, as a federal holiday. 

Throughout the journey, the monks have relied on a publicly shared live map to provide real-time updates on their location and walking route. Organizers encourage supporters to consult the map regularly, as daily routes may change.

More information on the monks HERE.

Photo courtesy of Walk for Peace



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