Kompas.com reports that 50 Buddhist monks from across Southeast Asia have walked from North Bali to the world-famous Borobudur Temple in Magelang, Central Java, on a “march for peace.”
The 666-kilometer walk began at the Brahmavihara Arama Temple in Banjar Tegeha Village, North Bali, on Saturday, 09 May 2026, and will end at the fabled 9th-century Borobudur Temple in Magelang Regency, Central Java.
The march is expected to end at the Borobodur Temple on 28 or 29 May 2026.
The walk is part of similar Buddhist walks held around the world, including the Indonesia Walk for Peace 2026, which commemorates Tri Suci Vesak 2570 BE (2026). Tri Suci Vesak 2570 marks three important events on the Buddhist religious calendar: the birth of Siddhartha Gautama(The Buddha), the final enlightenment of The Lord Buddha, and the death of The Buddha.
Thosin, the chairman of the “Indonesia Walk for Peace 2026,” explained that the group of 50 Buddhist monks walking from North Bali to Central Java comprises 43 monks from Thailand, 4 from Malaysia, and 3 from Laos. Thosin added, “There are also some from Indonesia accompanying us on the march.”
He added that the Indonesia Walk for Peace carries a message of peace that can be applied in everyday life. “Our message is that this walk for peace is not just for certain people, but everyone can contribute. Every step we take brings peace,” said Tosin.
Continuing, Thosin said: “Peace can start from the smallest environment, such as the family, then spread to society. With the peace we provide, we can also provide peace to our families, nation, state, and even the world.”
The marching monks were seen off by H.R. Muhammad Syafi’i, the Indonesian Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs, accompanied by Bali Governor Wayan Koster and the Deputy Regent of Buleleng Regency, Gede Supriatna.
Thosin said Bali was chosen as the starting point for the long march because of the Island’s reputation for religious tolerance and cultural diversity. Adding: “Bali is known for its diversity and togetherness. Although Buddhists are not dominant on the Island, the support from the community, across religions, and the government is extraordinary.”
Speaking at the start of the walk, Bali Governor Koster said the Bali “march for peace” can help inspire the world to seek peace and cherish tolerance.
During the march, the monks are targeting to walk 30-40 kilometers each day, wearing only their simple orange robes and carrying their “begging bowls.” Members of the public will provide food and drink to the monks throughout the journey.
Related Links
The Buddhist high holiday of “Hari Raya Waisak” will be celebrated in Indonesia on 31 May 2026. Waisak is an Indonesian national holiday.
Related Links
Stay Informed on Bali Tourism-Related News: Subscribe to Bali Update
