Gilgit-Baltistan is preparing to open its 2026–27 trophy hunting programme with permits for several prized mountain species expected to be offered through an auction in September.
The Parks and Wildlife Department has announced plans covering three Astore markhors, 14 blue sheep and 100 Himalayan ibex. The programme is expected to generate revenue while operating under the region’s regulated wildlife management framework.
Astore markhor permits carry the highest starting price, with each permit set at a base rate of $200,000. Blue sheep permits will begin at $25,000, while the starting price for a Himalayan ibex permit has been fixed at $11,000.
The department’s auction notice gives further details about the markhor quota. Four Astore markhors are listed under the exportable quota for the programme, but one permit was carried forward from the previous hunting season.
This means only three fresh Astore markhor permits will be placed in the upcoming auction. The auction is scheduled to take place in September.
Trophy hunting in Gilgit-Baltistan is conducted through controlled quotas, with permits allocated for specific wildlife species and areas. The high prices attached to rare animals such as the Astore markhor reflect their value under the region’s trophy hunting programme.
The upcoming auction will therefore attract attention from hunters interested in obtaining permits for some of the region’s most distinctive mountain wildlife.
The programme also highlights the financial value attached to regulated trophy hunting in the mountainous territory. Wildlife authorities use designated quotas to control the number of animals available for hunting during each season.
With the new season approaching, the September auction will determine the final prices paid for the available permits, depending on bidding activity.
The department’s announcement has placed particular focus on the limited number of Astore markhor permits, with only three new permits available for the 2026–27 season.
