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In a bold fusion of ancient tradition and cutting-edge tech, the Kingdom of Bhutan has launched a new crypto payment system that allows tourists to pay for goods and services using Binance Pay.
The initiative, spearheaded by Bhutan’s Department of Tourism in collaboration with Binance, aims to modernize the travel experience in the secluded Himalayan nation while promoting financial inclusion and digital transformation. Visitors can now use crypto to pay for hotels, local tours, restaurants, and more—directly from their Binance wallets.
A Kingdom Embraces Crypto
Known for its pristine landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, and emphasis on Gross National Happiness, Bhutan has long been viewed as a mystical and environmentally conscious destination. With this move, it now positions itself as one of the most forward-thinking countries in Asia when it comes to digital currency adoption.
“This initiative aligns with Bhutan’s vision of using technology to enrich visitor experiences and support a sustainable, inclusive economy,” said Dorji Dhradhul, Director General of the Department of Tourism. “Crypto payments provide seamless access for travelers, especially from regions where digital assets are becoming mainstream.”
How It Works
Through a partnership with Binance Pay, merchants across Bhutan can now accept payments in major cryptocurrencies like BTC, ETH, BNB, and stablecoins such as USDT and USDC. The process is simple and contactless: tourists scan a QR code at participating merchants and confirm the transaction in their Binance app.
The system also helps merchants convert crypto to fiat, mitigating volatility risks and ensuring compliance with local regulations.
A Boost for Tourism and Financial Innovation
Bhutan is hoping this move will attract tech-savvy travelers, crypto entrepreneurs, and digital nomads seeking both spiritual and scenic enrichment. The nation recently reopened its borders post-COVID and has been actively promoting high-value, low-impact tourism.
Binance CEO Richard Teng praised the launch, calling it “a landmark moment in the integration of crypto into real-world use cases.” He added, “By enabling Binance Pay across a national tourism ecosystem, Bhutan is showing how digital assets can deliver tangible value to both visitors and local economies.”
Crypto-Friendly, But Cautious
While Bhutan has taken progressive steps in the blockchain space—including running Bitcoin mining operations via its sovereign investment arm—officials stress that crypto use in tourism will be regulated and transparent, with robust anti-money laundering safeguards.
The government is also reportedly exploring the development of its own central bank digital currency (CBDC), further signaling a long-term strategy to blend traditional governance with digital finance.
Tradition Meets Tech
As travelers hike through Bhutan’s sacred valleys or visit the iconic Tiger’s Nest monastery, they can now do so with crypto wallets in their pockets and blockchain at their service. In a world where tech often overshadows culture, Bhutan is proving the two can walk hand-in-hand—through mountains, monasteries, and now, the metaverse.
