Vernacular Architecture in simpler terms is the local construction which uses materials and resources from the area where the building is located.
Kath kuni is a local and ancient building practice which has survived in the foothills of Himalayas for Centuries. The main materials used are locally available stone and wood. The word kath kuni is derived from Sanskrit Kasht and Kuni which implies wood in the corners. It is characterized by interlocking wood and stone which is topped with slate roof which helps to hold the roof in place.

Many of the structures along the foothills of himalayas are built using this technique and are centuries old surviving all types of seismic and climatic forces.
A typical Kathkuni house is two to three storey but can reach up to 7 storey high. Walls are doubled skinned and made of alternate layers of stone and wood.
The thick walls help in maintaining the temperature and thus making it suitable for living.