The economy in the Khumbu is doing well and there is something of a construction boom, mostly new lodges being built. The place where we stayed in Phakding was completely new and had basic plumbing --
flush toilets, showers (didn't try), basins; electrical power still limited.
In any event it felt decidedly upmarket, compared with the somewhat
grotty establishments we have seen in previous years. The construction is dry stone walls, with an adobe/stucco coat. Wood is restricted to windows, doors, and floors due to its expense. In consequence, they will not do very well in the next earthquake.
The precision with which the stone blocks are fitted together is remarkable,
and in the photo a mason is preparing a block for fitting to a corner. Saturday, March 27, 1999
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