Bhutan Embraces Cryptocurrency Payments Despite Connectivity Gaps

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Cointelegraph investigates cryptocurrency adoption in the Kingdom of Bhutan, an Eastern Himalayan nation where digital assets are becoming part of daily life—even amid misty mountains and ancient temples.

Crypto Payments Go Live in Bhutan

During Binance’s crypto tour in Bhutan, Cointelegraph visited the capital city Thimphu and the popular cultural tourism hub Paro to gauge grassroots interest in cryptocurrencies.

At Changlimithang Park and a local four-star hotel, reporters witnessed tourists and residents using crypto for payments months after Binance rolled out its crypto payment solution.

On May 7, Binance Pay partnered with Bhutan’s DK Bank, enabling users with Binance accounts to pay for flights, hotels, visas, sustainability fees, and even street food using:

DK Bank CEO Ugyen Gelchen revealed that nearly 1,000 merchants have registered to accept cryptocurrencies under this initiative.

Bhutan’s Citizens Are Just Beginning to Understand Crypto

Despite growing crypto payment adoption, much of Bhutan’s economy remains cash-reliant, local guide Kuenley Dorjee told Cointelegraph.

He noted that while locals are still grasping the concept of cryptocurrencies, they’re eager to embrace digital transformation.

👉 Discover how Bhutan combines tradition with crypto innovation

Dorjee praised the country’s crypto adoption, crediting King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck’s pro-innovation policies. Under the "Dragon King’s" reign, Bhutan has:

In 2023, reports revealed Bhutan began mining BTC as early as 2019 (~$5,000/BTC). On January 8, GMC announced plans to build a strategic crypto reserve.

Unstable Internet Remains a Barrier

While interest grows, poor connectivity poses challenges. Cointelegraph experienced erratic WiFi speeds in Paro and Thimphu—a sentiment echoed by other crypto travelers.

Reddit discussions highlight Bhutan’s internet struggles, with one user describing connections as "painfully slow, requiring immense patience."

Since crypto transactions demand stable internet, disruptions can hinder seamless payments.

Potential Solution: Starlink’s Arrival

Satellite provider Starlink launched in Bhutan on February 17, promising speeds of 100–200 Mbps. DK Bank’s UgyGelephuin called this a "game-changer," emphasizing that speed is critical for crypto payments.

While infrastructure improvements are ongoing, Bhutan’s crypto trajectory looks promising.

FAQs

Q: Can tourists use crypto in Bhutan?
A: Yes! Binance Pay supports crypto payments for hotels, flights, and local purchases via partner merchants.

Q: How does Bhutan mine Bitcoin sustainably?
A: The country uses hydroelectric power for eco-friendly mining.

Q: Will Starlink improve crypto adoption?
A: Faster internet could reduce payment delays, boosting usability.

👉 Explore Bhutan’s crypto-forward economy

Key Takeaways