This hunt is planned around the permit area, local scouting, weather and current field conditions. Our team helps with travel, guiding and field support from arrival to the end of the hunt.
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Permit, travel and field details can change. Confirm the final package with Rugged Ridge Expedition before booking.
Here are the main details for the Astor Markhor hunt. The exact permit area, travel plan and field schedule may change with local conditions.
Astor Markhor is found in small, scattered populations mainly in Gilgit-Baltistan, along the Indus River and its tributaries. Our hunts take place around Gilgit and nearby mountain areas. Hunting is carried out in community-controlled hunting areas under the Community Based Trophy Hunting Programme. The four permits for Astor Markhor are issued for specific areas in the Gilgit district, Astore and Skardu.
The hunting season starts as early as November 1 and runs through the end of March. December is the rutting season and can be a very good time because Markhor may move to lower ground and mature males can be easier to see. Late-season hunts can still be successful, but the animals may move higher as temperatures rise.
Accommodation depends on the hunting area. It can range from simple village guesthouses to more comfortable local hotels.
Hunters arrive in Islamabad and are met by our team. From Islamabad, the normal plan is a domestic flight to Gilgit, which takes about one hour. In winter, flights can be affected by weather, so a road journey may be needed. After reaching Gilgit, most hunting areas are around 30 minutes to 2 hours away by road.
Astor Markhor can live from about 2,300 feet (700 m) up to 13,000 feet (4,000 m), depending on the season. Most hunting takes place between about 3,000 feet (900 m) and 8,500 feet (2,600 m).
Weather changes through the season. November is usually milder. December can range from about 26°F (-3°C) during the day to 8°F (-13°C) at night. January is normally colder, with temperatures around 21°F (-6°C) to 3°F (-16°C). Conditions begin to warm by mid-March.
Hunting days start early, sometimes before sunrise. Most hunts begin on foot from the village or after a short drive. The main method is spot-and-stalk. Local communities help with scouting because they know the terrain and the movement of the Markhor.
A 10-day itinerary is usually enough. Many hunts are completed in only a few hunting days because local teams scout the area before the hunter arrives. This helps make the hunt more efficient.
Tell us your preferred month, hunting method and group size. Our team will confirm current pricing, permits and available dates.
Call our team: +92 355 527 3347 ↗