Gilgit-Baltistan Sets Record With $370,000 Markhor Trophy Hunting Permit

The Gilgit-Baltistan Wildlife and Parks Department has set a new record after auctioning the highest-priced hunting permit for an Astore markhor at $370,000 for the 2025–26 trophy hunting season.

Officials said the auction, held at the Forest, Parks and Wildlife Complex in Gilgit, drew strong participation from outfitters and international hunters, reflecting growing global interest in Pakistan’s wildlife resources.

Under Gilgit-Baltistan’s trophy hunting programme, 80% of the revenue is directed to local communities to support conservation and development projects. The model has been widely credited with helping protect endangered species such as the markhor.

Experts, however, cautioned that surging permit prices could raise sustainability concerns in the long run, warning that over-commercialisation may put pressure on wildlife management systems.

Earlier

In past seasons, trophy hunting permits for Astore markhor had ranged from $100,000 to $250,000, making this year’s bid the highest on record.

The markhor, Pakistan’s national animal, was once critically endangered but has seen improved population recovery under controlled hunting schemes.

Conservation Debate

International wildlife bodies have previously recognised Gilgit-Baltistan’s community-based conservation model as a success story, noting how revenue sharing with locals incentivises protection of rare species.

Conservationists continue to stress, however, that trophy hunting should remain tightly regulated to ensure long-term ecological balance.