Monks arrive in Lumbini after 108-day barefoot peace march across US

A group of Buddhist monks has concluded a remarkable 108-day, 3,700-kilometer barefoot peace march across the United States, culminating their journey in Lumbini, Nepal, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha. The "Walk for Peace" movement, now expanding to South Asia, began on October 26, 2025, from the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Centre in Fort Worth, Texas.

The delegation, led by Vietnamese-American monk Bhikkhu Pannakara, garnered global attention not only for their arduous journey but also for Aloka, an Indian rescue dog who accompanied them every step of the way. Aloka's presence has attracted millions of social media followers, amplifying the movement's reach.

Upon arriving in Lumbini, the monks performed a mindful peace walk from the Eternal Peace Flame to the Mayadevi Temple, where they offered special prayers. Local authorities and representatives from the Lumbini Development Trust formally welcomed the group during a reception. Bhikkhu Pannakara emphasized the power of a universal message, stating, "Peace does not begin from states, it begins from individuals. With one step, one breath, and one united mind, we must strive for peace."

Gyanin Rai, acting member-secretary of the Lumbini Development Trust, highlighted the arrival's significance, noting it enhanced Lumbini's spiritual importance and would boost peace tourism. The group, comprising 18 members including four monks and 14 lay followers, entered Nepal via the Sonauli border after a week in India. Bhikkhu Pannakara has prior experience in Nepal, having provided relief support after the 2015 earthquake.

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Peace does not begin from states, it begins from individuals. With one step, one breath, and one united mind, we must strive for peace.