Walk for Peace monks begin journey to Sri Lanka

A deeply spiritual and historic initiative is set to unfold across Sri Lanka this April, as a group of revered Buddhist monks embark on a powerful pilgrimage titled the Walk for Peace Sri Lanka 2026. Blending faith, purpose, and global connection, the journey is already resonating far beyond the island’s shores.

On April 14, 2026, seven venerable monks departed from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, traveling to Sri Lanka to begin preparations for this extraordinary event. The monks—Venerable Phiyathammoo, Venerable Ratanasak Chaoyod, Venerable Dechamnaj Hompromma, Venerable Natthapol, Venerable Ponchai Khamyeam, Venerable Thirasak, and Venerable Oneta Mingsisouphanh—represent a diverse and devoted spiritual community united by a shared mission: to spread peace, compassion, and mindfulness.

A Journey Across the Island

Scheduled to take place from April 21 to May 1, 2026, the Walk for Peace will see the monks travel across Sri Lanka, engaging with communities, temples, and devotees along the way. Rooted in the timeless teachings of the Buddha, the walk symbolizes a call for unity in a world often divided by conflict and uncertainty.

The initiative is not merely a physical journey, but a spiritual movement—one that encourages reflection, kindness, and collective healing. As the monks traverse cities, villages, and sacred sites, they will carry with them a message that transcends borders: peace begins within.

A Growing Spiritual Gathering

In the coming days, additional members of the monastic community—Venerable Ratanaguṇa, Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara, and Aloka—will join the pilgrimage, strengthening the collective intention behind the walk. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, Venerable Phra Supalak will remain at the Hương Đạo Vipassana Bhavana Center and will not participate in this particular journey.

Sacred Treasures and a Historic Return

Marking a profound milestone, the conclusion of the Walk for Peace will see the monks entrusted with carrying Sacred Relics of the Buddha—considered a revered national treasure of Sri Lanka—along with a sacred Bodhi tree sapling. This sapling is believed to be a descendant of the original tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment, making it a symbol of awakening, wisdom, and continuity.

These sacred relics will be transported to the United States and featured in a special exposition during the Vesak celebrations at the Hương Đạo Vipassana Bhavana Center in Fort Worth, Texas, from May 2 to May 10, 2026. This rare opportunity will allow devotees and the wider community to connect with deeply significant elements of Buddhist heritage.

Bridging Nations Through Peace

The Walk for Peace Sri Lanka 2026 stands as a remarkable example of how spiritual traditions can unite people across continents. From the United States to Sri Lanka, this initiative creates a living bridge—one built not on politics or power, but on compassion, humility, and shared humanity.

As the monks prepare to walk this sacred path, their journey carries a universal message: that peace is not a distant ideal, but a daily practice. Through every step, blessing, and interaction, they hope to inspire individuals and communities to cultivate harmony within themselves and extend it outward to the world.

In a time when such messages are needed more than ever, the Walk for Peace offers a gentle yet powerful reminder—true transformation begins with a single step.