The internationally recognised “Walk for Peace,” which originated in the United States, is set to be held in Sri Lanka from April 21 to 28, 2026, under the leadership of the Most Venerable Paññakāra Thero and a delegation of twelve monks from the Maha Sangha.
Spanning seven days across the island, the pilgrimage is inspired by the Buddha’s teaching encouraging monks to travel for the welfare and happiness of all beings. The initiative aims to promote peace, compassion, and loving-kindness, while demonstrating that true peace must be cultivated gradually through mindfulness rather than force.
The inaugural event will take place in Anuradhapura on April 21, with a ceremony to receive a sacred sapling of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, followed by religious observances at Ruwanweliseya.
The walk will then commence from Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and proceed towards Kandy. Upon arrival, the Maha Sangha will pay respects to the Chief Prelates of the Malwatta and Asgiriya Chapters and visit Sri Dalada Maligawa to receive blessings.
Throughout the journey, participants will carry the sacred sapling along with revered relics from several historic temples, including Mahiyangana Raja Maha Viharaya and Gangaramaya Temple.
The walk will conclude at Independence Square on April 28, followed by a ceremonial procession carrying the sacred items to Gangaramaya Temple.
The Sri Lankan coordination of the event is led by Venerable Melpitiye Wimalakirti Thera, with support from the Government’s “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative and several state institutions, including the National Design Centre, the Tri-Forces, and the Department of Information.
A special State Ceremony will be held at Independence Square to mark the conclusion of the walk, alongside an exhibition at Gangaramaya showcasing Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage and traditional handicrafts, such as brassware, lacquerwork, clay crafts, palm leaf creations, textiles, and traditional art.
The broader objective of this initiative is to contribute Sri Lanka’s Buddhist and cultural heritage to an international project in Texas, where the Tripitaka is being inscribed in multiple languages and enshrined in 840 stupas to establish a global centre for Buddhist education.
