Buddhist Monks on Pilgrimage for World Peace Walk Through New York: 2,000 Miles and Counting

A group of Buddhist monks from all over the world is currently on a journey to raise awareness about achieving world peace. They began their pilgrimage in Key West, Florida and will end it at Niagara Falls. Along the way, they will walk an average of 30 miles per day for 2,000 miles.

Their journey has taken them through states such as Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Washington D.C., Maryland, and now New York. On Monday, they traveled through the Southern Tier on Route 5 and Route 20 before making their way towards Grand Island and Terrapin Point. During their travels, they stopped at various locations including the Native Pride Travel Plaza where they received a Seneca Nation flag and refreshments.

Despite traveling light with minimal clothing, blankets and food supplies, the monks rely on the kindness of local communities to support them on their pilgrimage. This week they plan to continue their journey with plans to conclude at the observation deck at Terrapin Point on Saturday. Updates on their progress can be found on their Facebook page.

Adam Gorski is a Buffalo native who joined News 4 in 2022 and can be found covering more of his work on the website.