Yigit Taha OZTURK 
Tucked between the Himalayan peaks, Bhutan may appear as a land frozen in time. Yet, behind ancient temples and prayer flags, a quiet digital revolution is gaining ground—through crypto.
During the Binance Crypto-Powered Tour, Cointelegraph visited Thimphu and Paro to assess how much traction crypto payments have gained. Just a few months after launch, locals and tourists alike are using digital assets for everything from hotel bookings to street food.
From Temples to Tokens: A Nation Transforms
On May 7, Binance Pay and DK Bank announced a partnership allowing users to pay with Bitcoin, BNB, USDT, and other assets for flights, hotels, visas, and even snacks.
DK Bank president Ugy Gelephuin stated that nearly 1,000 merchants have already signed up to accept crypto. Local tour guide Kuenley Dorjee told Cointelegraph that the technology is still new to many, but enthusiasm is growing: “It’s easier to use and the fees are better.”
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Bhutan’s progressive stance stems largely from its monarch, King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck—nicknamed the “Dragon King.” Under his rule, the country has implemented hydro-powered Bitcoin mining since 2019, accumulating over 12,000 BTC when prices were around $5,000.
In January, Bhutan‘s Gelephu region unveiled plans to develop a strategic crypto reserve, showing long-term commitment to digital assets.
Internet Challenges Persist, But Hope Is on the Horizon
Despite excitement, the country faces ongoing internet instability. Cointelegraph encountered inconsistent Wi-Fi in Paro and Thimphu, with Reddit users describing connections as “horrendously slow.”
The recent arrival of Starlink, however, could be a game-changer. Officially launched on February 17, Starlink promises speeds between 100–200 Mbps—enough to support real-time crypto transactions.
DK Bank’s Gelephuin remains optimistic: “We’re not quite there yet, but we’re on the right track.”
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