When one thinks of an off the beaten track destination, Bhutan is one of many that comes to mind due to its remote and isolated location that is nestled between Tibet and India, perched high up in the Himalayan Mountains.
One of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world and its jewel in the crown, is the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, which looks like it is hanging on a cliff. It sits precariously 3,000 metres above the Paro valley and consists of several temples and dwellings. All buildings are interconnected by staircases with steps carved into the rock. However, the temple is only reachable after a steep, two-hour hike and you must join a tour.
It is such a sight that represents Bhutan, which is also called Land of the Thunder Dragon (there is a dragon in its national flag), further exuding mystery, myth and legend. The Kingdom was closed to foreign travellers until 1974 and tourism is thought of as still being in its infancy stage but not anymore.
Crypto-Based Tourist Payment System
Bhutan has partnered with Binance Pay and Bhutan’s national bank, DK Bank to launch the world’s first national crypto-based tourism payment system, allowing visitors to use digital assets for everything from hotels to market purchases. Bhutan is the first country in the world to adopt such a mechanism on a national scale.
This partnership aligns with Bhutan’s broader goals of equitable economic development and cultural preservation, while showcasing how blockchain can drive real-world inclusion. As the first country to implement crypto payments nationwide for tourism, Bhutan is positioning itself as a model for integrating digital finance into national infrastructure, with global implications.
The system aims to make travel in Bhutan a cashless experience as it allows visitors with Binance accounts to pay for a wide range of travel expenses using supported digital assets.
Tourists can now use cryptocurrencies for nearly all travel-related costs, including flights, visa applications, the country’s Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) which is US$100 (per person per night until August 31, 2027), accommodation, local transportation, entrance fees to cultural sites, and everyday purchases.
The system integrates over 100 Bhutanese merchants, enabling seamless, real-time transactions through the Binance app. Tourists can scan QR codes and pay in over 100 supported cryptocurrencies, including bitcoin, BNB and USDC. DK Bank facilitates instant local settlement, eliminating currency exchange hurdles and credit card restrictions that often complicate international travel.
Crucially, the system benefits Bhutan’s small businesses and rural vendors, many of whom previously lacked access to digital payment infrastructure. With just a smartphone, they can now connect to a global customer base.
Bhutan now hosts an array of accommodation ranging from cosy Bhutanese homestays and guesthouses to luxurious hotels and resorts. A kingdom that offers spiritual experiences and epic adventures, is now ready for the future cashless travel.
