Why are the monks walking?
The monks embarked on the journey to remind Americans that peace is not a destination, according to the pilgrimage's announcement.
"As the nation faces challenges of division, mental health crises, and conflict both at home and abroad, this pilgrimage offers a simple yet profound message: Peace begins within the heart of each person and extends outward to families, communities, and the nation as a whole," a "Walk for Peace" news release stated.
Buddhist monks often undertake long walking pilgrimages that last months. During their walk, the monks observed a strict ascetic code inspired by ancient traditions. Those traditions include eating just one meal per day and sleeping beneath trees, which is considered a practice of humility, endurance and spiritual focus.
The monks announced they had arrived in Washington, DC, around 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 10.