Fifty monks from Southeast Asia have begun a spiritual journey on foot from Bali to Borobudur Temple in Magelang Regency, Central Java, ahead of the Vesak Day celebration on May 31, 2026.
The journey started from Brahmavihara Arama in Banjar Tegeha Village, Banjar District, Buleleng Regency, Bali, on Saturday, May 9, 2026. The activity is part of Indonesia Walk for Peace 2026, which commemorates the Tri Suci Vesak 2570 BE/2026.
The monks are expected to walk approximately 666 kilometres over the course of three weeks before arriving at Borobudur Temple for the annual Vesak celebration.
Tosin, Chairman of Indonesia Walk for Peace 2026, said the participants came from several Southeast Asian countries. Of the 50 monks taking part, 43 are from Thailand, four from Malaysia, and three from Laos.
“There are also some from Indonesia who are accompanying us. There are also possibilities that others will join us along the way,” Tosin said.
Journey Carries Message of Peace
Tosin said the walk aims to promote peace through simple daily actions and interactions with the community during the journey.
“Our message is that this walk for peace isn’t just for certain individuals, but we can all contribute. Every step we take brings peace,” he said.
According to Tosin, the monks will walk between 30 and 40 kilometres each day during the thudong pilgrimage to Central Java.
He also explained that the monks only carry basic personal belongings during the journey.
“What they brought was a bowl. A monk lives a very simple life. His basic needs are a robe, a set of clothes, and a place to eat,” he said.
Tosin said the bowl, known as a patta, is used to receive food donations from local residents along the route.
“When we eat, we use this bowl, which we call a patta. So, it’s a place to receive kindness. Monks provide opportunities for the congregation or community to do good,” he added.
The thudong tradition is a spiritual practice in Buddhism in which monks travel on foot while maintaining a simple lifestyle and discipline throughout the journey.
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Bali Governor Calls for Public Support
Bali Governor Wayan Koster called on residents and regional administrations along the route to support the monks during their journey.
“We all have a responsibility to support the smooth and successful journey. We pray for the smooth running of this 20-day journey, ensuring a safe and uneventful arrival,” Koster said in an official statement released by the Bali Provincial Government in Denpasar on Sunday.
Koster attended the send-off ceremony at Brahmavihara Arama in Buleleng Regency. He expressed appreciation for the monks who had committed to the long journey with discipline and dedication.
“We respect, we salute everyone, and we applaud the noble monks,” he said.
According to Koster, the Indonesia Walk for Peace 2026 is in line with the Bali Provincial Government’s vision of Nangun Sat Kerthi Loka Bali, which focuses on preserving harmony between people, culture, and the environment.
The monks are scheduled to arrive at Borobudur Temple before the Vesak Day celebration on May 31, 2026.
