Bhutan has partnered with Binance Pay to launch the world’s first national-level crypto tourism payment system, allowing travellers to use cryptocurrency throughout their visit.
Under the new initiative, visitors with Binance accounts can use supported cryptocurrencies to pay for a wide range of travel-related expenses. These include flight tickets, visas, the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), hotel bookings, tour guides, monument entry, and local shopping. The system is integrated with Bhutan’s fully digital DK Bank and currently supports over 100 merchants.
According to the Department of Tourism Bhutan, the system enables both static and dynamic QR code payments and is accepted across immigration, travel agents, hotels, guides, and retail outlets – including roadside vendors in remote villages.
"This is more than a payment solution – it's a commitment to innovation, inclusion, and convenience," said Damcho Rinzin, Director of the Department of Tourism. "It enables a seamless experience for travellers and empowers even small vendors in remote villages to participate in the tourism economy."
The system offers immediate transactions, zero gas fees, real-time confirmations, and 2FA encryption via the Binance app. It also supports over 100 cryptocurrencies, including BNB, BTC, and USDC.
Richard Teng, CEO of Binance, said: "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."
The initiative marks the first time a country has implemented a crypto payment system specifically for tourism at a national level. It aims to reduce payment barriers like high transaction fees and limited merchant acceptance while providing fast, secure, and transparent transactions for travellers and local businesses alike.