Yeti Treks - Nepal Hiking Guide

Project Overview

Born from my passion for mountain hiking, Yeti Treks is a comprehensive mobile application designed to assist trekkers exploring the Himalayas. addressing the specific challenges faced by hikers in remote regions of Nepal, such as lack of connectivity and detailed local information.

The Challenge

Trekking in Nepal presents unique difficulties:

• Unreliable Internet: Most trails have little to no cellular coverage.
• Navigation Risks: Getting lost on unmarked trails can be dangerous.
• Lack of Info: Accurate details about teahouses, water sources, and altitude are often scattered.
• Safety: Immediate access to emergency contacts is crucial.

Technical Solution

I built a cross-platform mobile app using Flutter that prioritizes offline-first functionality and user safety.

Key Features

1. Offline Maps & Navigation

   • Vector-based maps downloadable for offline use.
   • GPS tracking to alert users if they deviate from the trail.
   • Elevation profiles for every route.

2. Community & Social

   • Trail reviews and real-time updates from other trekkers (synced when online).
   • Photo sharing and check-ins at major landmarks.

3. Safety Toolkit

   • One-tap SOS button sending coordinates to pre-set contacts via SMS.
   • Altitude sickness warning system based on ascent rate.
   • Comprehensive first-aid guide stored locally.

Technologies Used

• Frontend: Flutter (Dart) for iOS and Android
• Backend: Firebase (Auth, Firestore, Cloud Functions)
• Maps: Mapbox GL for custom terrain styling
• State Management: Riverpod
• Local Storage: Hive (NoSQL database) for efficient offline data

Design & User Experience

The app features a clean, high-contrast interface designed for visibility in bright sunlight.

• Dark Mode: Battery-saving mode for long treks.
• Minimalist UI: Focus on critical information (Speed, Altitude, Direction).

Code Snippet: Offline Tile Management

// Managing offline map regions
class OfflineMapService {
  Future<void> downloadRegion(Region region) async {
    final downloadTask = _mapbox.downloadOfflineRegion(
      definition: OfflineRegionDefinition(
        bounds: region.bounds,
        minZoom: 10,
        maxZoom: 16,
        styleURL: MapboxStyles.OUTDOORS,
      ),
      metadata: {'name': region.name},
    );

    downloadTask.onProgress.listen((progress) {
      // Update UI with download percentage
      _progressController.add(progress);
    });
  }
}

Results

• 5,000+ Active users during tourist season
• 4.9 Star Rating on App Store
• Featured in local tourism blogs
• Ideally merged my technical skills with my love for the outdoors

Yeti Treks is more than just an app; it’s a digital sherpa that ensures every adventure in the Himalayas is safe and memorable.