- Bhutan launched the first national crypto tourism system with Binance Pay and DK Bank support.
- Now, tourists can use over 100 supported cryptocurrencies to pay for hotels, tours, and local goods.
- The system empowers rural vendors to accept crypto payments through QR codes and mobile devices.
In partnership with Binance Pay and BH Bank, Bhutan has become among the first to launch the world’s first national crypto tourism payment system. The system allows travelers to use cryptocurrency to pay for nearly every part of their trip, including hotels, airline tickets, guides, local crafts, and more.
Announced on May 7, the new payment model transforms Bhutan’s travel sector into a fully cashless and cardless experience. More than 100 local businesses have joined the system, which enables seamless transactions through QR codes and real-time crypto settlement.
Crypto Now Powers Bhutan’s Entire Tourist Journey
Now tourists can make payments via the Binance app with over 100 cryptos that include Bitcoin (BTC), Binance Coin (BNB) and USD Coin (USDC). From monument fees to roadside fruits, travelers can scan QR codes and settle instantly with DK Bank, Bhutan’s first digital financial institution.
The system aims to eliminate common challenges faced by international travelers. These include high foreign exchange fees, limited card acceptance and the need to carry cash. Binance Pay makes transactions fast, secure and gas fee-free. This is through the support of dynamic and static QR code payments.
Director of the Department of Tourism Damcho Rinzin said: “This is more than a payment solution — it’s a commitment to innovation, inclusion and convenience.” According to him, both rural artisans and remote vendors can now have access to global tourists with just mobile devices.
This is the first opportunity for many Bhutanese communities to accept non-cash payments. This allows local businesses to have access to wider customer base without complex banking infrastructure. The initiative enables new economic opportunities while maintaining Bhutan’s cultural identity, as Binance explains.
A Global First in Digital Travel Infrastructure
According to Richard Teng, CEO of Binance, this project marks a new framework for the ways digital finance can accelerate international connectivity. He said, “this initiative exemplifies our commitment to innovation and our belief in a future where digital finance empowers global connectivity and enriches travel experiences.”
This signals the growing interest in cryptocurrency and blockchain in Bhutan. According to reports, the state-run investment arm of the country, Druk Holding and Investments, holds over 12,000 Bitcoins. Bhutan has been steadily expanding its crypto reserves across various networks since early 2024, such as Base, Polygon and BNB Chain.
Although this enthusiasm prevails, regulation is still not clear. Previously, the Royal Monetary Authority reportedly told citizens to tread carefully with digital currencies, warning there were unknown risks. DK Bank, which is licensed by the authority, now serves as the crypto tourism system’s settlement partner, regulating transactions.
Binance Pay operates in more than 100 countries and Bhutan’s national crypto tourism system looks set to serve as a model for other countries. This becomes the first time that a country has actually fully integrated crypto payments to its travel industry, making it a real-world usage of blockchain adoption on a national scale. Bhutan’s crypto payment system combines modern financial tools and traditional culture, shoring up tourism growth and financial inclusion around the kingdom.
