Famed Himalayan Monastery Burns

The main part of Thyangboche Monastery, a landmark for foreigners hiking to Mt. Everest, has burned to the ground, a Buddhist priest said Saturday. The priest, who flew by helicopter to the site high in the Himalayas, told reporters the ruins of the main prayer hall were still smoldering.

The fire, apparently caused by an electrical fault, broke out late Thursday. Hikers camping at the monastery helped save some of the religious books and paintings.