Bhutan has made history by becoming the first country in the world to implement a fully integrated national tourism payment system powered by cryptocurrency. The initiative, launched in partnership with Binance Pay and Druk Holding & Investments’ DK Bank, was officially announced on May 7, 2025.
The new infrastructure allows international tourists to use supported cryptocurrencies—such as BNB, BTC, ETH, and stablecoins—for a wide range of expenses, including visa fees, flights, accommodations, local markets, and guided tours. Payments can be made seamlessly through mobile wallets, offering a streamlined experience for travelers across the country.
“One Wallet, One Journey” serves as more than just a slogan; it underscores Bhutan’s broader strategy to embed digital innovation and cryptocurrency accessibility at the heart of its national tourism agenda.
So far, more than 100 merchants have joined the system, with participants spread across both urban centers and remote regions. This not only simplifies transactions for visitors but also empowers small businesses by granting them access to global capital and digital payment tools.
“This project is part of Bhutan’s broader vision for a self-reliant, tech-enabled economy,” said DK Bank’s CEO. “We see blockchain and digital assets as critical tools for national growth and financial inclusion.”
The system is underpinned by Binance Pay, a contactless crypto payment platform developed by the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange. Known for supporting instant, zero-fee, and borderless transactions, Binance Pay was chosen to power the backend of Bhutan’s new digital tourism ecosystem.
By leveraging this technology, Bhutan positions itself as a global leader in cryptocurrency adoption at a national level, with ambitions to drive both tourism and digital transformation.
