Sixteen Monks Begin 11-Day Walking Pilgrimage Across Central Java

RRI.CO.ID, Jepara - A powerful display of religious pluralism and self-discipline began in Central Java on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, as 16 Buddhist monks embarked on an 11-day walking pilgrimage across seven regencies to promote national harmony.

The spiritual journey, known as Thudong, commenced from Sima Temple in Blingoh Village, Jepara Regency, with the monks charting a course toward their final destination at Sewu Temple in Prambanan, Klaten Regency. Jepara Regent Witiarso Utomo officially sent off the participants, hailing the arduous trek as a testament to the region's deep-rooted cultural and religious co-existence.

"This activity is a symbol of the spiritual journey as well as strengthening the values of tolerance and diversity in Jepara Regency," remarked Witiarso during the send-off ceremony in Donorojo Subdistrict, as quoted by Antara.

He added that the event serves as a living reflection of a harmonious Jepara, describing the regency as a peaceful home that nurtures tolerance while deeply respecting plurality and diversity.

Over the next 11 days, the 16 participating bhikkhus (monks), who have gathered from various regions across Indonesia, will adhere to a lifestyle of strict simplicity and spiritual discipline. The grueling route spans across the Central Java province, taking the monks through the regencies of Jepara, Demak, Semarang, Ungaran, Salatiga, and Boyolali, before concluding in Klaten.

According to the event's organizing committee chairperson, Sundoko, the physical demands of the trek are secondary to its internal purpose. "At every step there is a prayer for peace in the country," explained Sundoko.

He then emphasizes that the Thudong is a profound inner journey wrapped in spiritual meaning, where every step carries a prayer for national peace.

To assist the monks along their route, local communities have prepared public facilities where the travelers can rest and receive alms. Beyond its religious significance, organizers and local officials hope this 11-day pilgrimage will actively foster social empathy, inspire interfaith tolerance, and reinforce the spirit of unity throughout the province. ***

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