Bhutan has launched what is being hailed as the world’s first national-level crypto tourism payment system, allowing international travelers to use cryptocurrencies for services within the country. The initiative, announced on May 7, is a collaboration between Bhutan’s Department of Tourism, Binance Pay, and DK Bank.
The system enables visitors with Binance accounts to pay for tickets, hotel stays, tour guides, and other services using over 100 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Binance Coin (BNB), and USD Coin (USDC). In addition to enhancing tourist convenience, the platform introduces a QR code-based payment gateway for local businesses, helping even Bhutan’s most remote vendors and artisans accept crypto payments through smartphones.
“This is more than a payment solution — it’s a commitment to innovation, inclusion, and convenience,” said Damcho Rinzin, Director of Bhutan’s Tourism Department. The system is aimed at promoting digital financial inclusion, particularly for small and rural enterprises that lack access to traditional banking and card payment infrastructure.
Binance emphasized that this is the first time a fully integrated, end-to-end crypto payment solution has been implemented at a national level. “It addresses previous limitations by offering real-time confirmations, near-zero fees, and licensed local bank settlements,” the company said. CEO Richard Teng stated the initiative “sets a precedent for how technology can bridge cultures and economies.”
The crypto payment rollout aligns with Bhutan’s broader digital strategy. The country has been investing in cryptocurrencies for years and is working to establish a strategic crypto reserve. Druk Holding and Investments (DHI), Bhutan’s commercial arm, reportedly increased its Bitcoin holdings to 12,062 BTC in 2024, with additional crypto assets held across other blockchains.
Despite its growing embrace of crypto, Bhutan still navigates a regulatory gray area. In 2020, the Royal Monetary Authority warned citizens against investing in unregulated cryptocurrencies like Pi, highlighting unresolved risks.
