Gilgit-Baltistan Auctions Trophy Hunting Permits for 117 Animals
Gilgit: The Gilgit-Baltistan Wildlife and Parks Department has auctioned hunting permits for 117 trophy animals for the 2026-27 trophy hunting season, with an Astore markhor permit fetching the highest bid of $356,000.
The auction was held on Thursday at the Forest, Parks and Wildlife Complex in Gilgit and attracted a large number of outfitters and hunters.
Astore Markhor Permit Fetches $356,000
Three Astore markhor permits were auctioned during the bidding process.
The first permit received the highest bid of $356,000, while the second was sold for $301,000. The third permit fetched $294,000.
The department also has one additional Astore markhor permit carried forward from the previous hunting season.
Permits Issued for 14 Blue Sheep and 100 Ibexes
The department auctioned permits covering:
- 3 Astore markhors
- 14 blue sheep
- 100 Himalayan ibexes
According to Chief Conservator of Parks and Wildlife Zakir Hussain, the highest exportable blue sheep permit was sold for $31,200.
The lowest bid for a blue sheep permit stood at $25,100.
Himalayan Ibex Permits Also Attract Bids
Himalayan ibex permits also generated significant interest during the auction.
Zakir Hussain said the highest exportable Himalayan ibex permit in the prime category fetched $13,200, while the lowest bid was recorded at $11,500.
The auction brought together hunters and outfitters interested in participating in the upcoming trophy hunting season.
GB Expects Rs. 650 Million Revenue
Wildlife officials expect the trophy hunting programme to generate approximately Rs. 650 million during the 2026-27 season.
The hunting season is scheduled to run from October 15, 2026, to April 10, 2027.
The revenue generated through the programme is expected to contribute to wildlife and conservation-related activities in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Trophy Hunting Season to Begin in October
The auction marks an important step ahead of the new trophy hunting season in the region.
The Wildlife and Parks Department conducted the bidding process for the designated species and categories, with permits allocated through competitive bidding.
The programme continues to attract international and local interest due to the region’s diverse wildlife and mountainous terrain.
