Bhutan has introduced an initiative that allows tourists to pay for nearly every aspect of their visit using cryptocurrency.
The country has partnered with Binance Pay and DK Bank to create the world’s first national-level crypto tourism payment system, according to a Wednesday announcement. This new system enables travelers with Binance accounts to use digital assets for payments ranging from airline tickets and visa fees to hotel stays, tours and even roadside fruit stalls.
The system supports more than 100 cryptocurrencies, including BNB, BTC and USDC, and settles transactions instantly in the local currency via DK Bank. By cutting out the need for traditional payment methods, the system offers an efficient way for tourists to pay for their travels in Bhutan.
Using the Binance app, travelers can make payments through dynamic or static QR codes, ensuring secure, real-time transactions.
The new payment system also brings significant benefits to Bhutanese communities, particularly small vendors and rural artisans who previously lacked access to payment infrastructure.
With the ability to settle transactions in local currency and no gas fees, the partnership between Binance Pay and DK Bank provides a convenient solution for modern-day travelers.
As a result, Bhutan’s goals of sustainable development, equitable growth and cultural preservation are supported. Richard Teng, Binance CEO, pointed to the significance of this partnership, stating, “We are excited to partner with Bhutan as we are not only advancing the use of cryptocurrencies in travel, but also setting a precedent for how technology can bridge cultures and economies.”
Even remote businesses in Bhutan can now accept cryptocurrency payments through a simple phone. All they need is a QR code.
Damcho Rinzin, director of Bhutan’s tourism department, said that the system is not just a payment solution but also a step toward innovation and inclusion.