The Ibex prefers open, precipitous terrain at moderate to relatively high altitudes. The hunter is expected to be in good physical shape. The hunter has to bring binoculars, a range finder, comfortable mountain boots, a windproof camouflage jacket, a warm sweater, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a sleeping bag. The duration of the actual hunt varies from 02 to 03 days, whereas the total trip from Islamabad back to Islamabad is approximately 06 to 07 days (subject to weather).
Taxonomy & Game Profile
Biological Name : Pseudois Nayaur
Local names: Bharal, Blue Sheep & Shape
Shoulder Height: 69 -to 91 cm (27 -to 36 inches)
Body Length: 115 -to 165 cm (45 -to 65 inches)
Weight: 35 -to 75 kg (77 -to 165 lbs)
Horn Length: 63 -to 105 cm / 25 -to 41 inch.
About Himalayan Ibex
The Himalayan Ibex is found in the remotest pinnacles of the mighty Karakorums, the Himalayas and the Hindukush. They have been a source of subsistence for the inhabitants of these remote valleys since ages. The Himalayan Ibex is a large goat with thick-legged and stoutly built, a long pointed chin beard and heavy scimitar-shaped horns. The summer coat is short, becoming long, coarse and brittle in winter with a dorsal crest and thick undercoat. The color is variable, but generally in summer it is a shade of yellowish or grayish-brown with a darker dorsal stripe, dark under parts and legs, and without a lighter saddle patch. The winter coat is yellowish-white and usually there is a large, light saddle patch. The dorsal stripe, tail and beard are blackish-brown. The male’s horns are large and impressive, curving around to form three-fourths of a circle and tapering to relatively slender points. Horns are relatively flat on the front surface and have well-defined cross ridges. The Male Himalayan Ibex weighs from 210 to 230 pounds and has a height of over 40 inches at the shoulder. When compared to other subspecies of Ibex, the Himalayan Ibex appears stockier and sturdier. In general, a bull with over 38 inches of horn length is a good trophy and anything over 42 inches is considered excellent.
Ontogeny & Reproduction
Mating occurs between October & January followed by a 160 day gestation. Single lambs (rarely twins) are born in early summer (May-June). Weaning occurs in six months & young reach maturity 1.5 years though males are not fully sexually active until 7 years. They can live from 12-15 years.
Habitat, Ecology & Behavior
Blue Sheep occupy a variety of habitats across the region. Blue Sheep inhabit open grassy slopes in high mountains from 2,500-5,500 m. They are usually found near cliffs and similar escape cover but generally avoid entering forested areas. This species can often maintain locally high densities in habitats otherwise inhospitable to other wild species. They tolerate environmental extremes, from desert mountains with searing heat to windy and cold slopes. Blue sheep generally live in large groups, but males sometimes form all-male herds & sometimes mix with family aggregations. Small groups (less than 5) are sometimes encountered, particularly where topography or vegetation is complex, but more often, blue sheep form larger groups. Bharal are active throughout the day, feeding on grass, alpine herbs, lichens, herbaceous plants, mosses & hardy herbaceous plants, alternating between feeding and resting on the grassy mountain slopes. Sentinels watch out for snow leopards, their primary predators. Due to their excellent camouflage and the
absence of cover in their environment, Bharal remains motionless when approached. However, once they have been noticed, they scamper up to the cliffs, where they freeze, ‘melting’ into the rock face.
Trip Summary
Hunting Season: 01 November to 25 April
Hunting Areas: Province of Gilgit-Baltistan … see area map
Altitude: 2,500 to 5,500 meters (8,200 to 18,040 ft)
Average Temperature: -10º to +10º Celsius
Fitness Grade: Easy to moderate … see fitness grades
Arrival & Departure: Islamabad International Airport
Domestic Flights: Islamabad to Gilgit & back (optional)
Long Haul Driving: 12 hours from Islamabad (optional)
Short Haul Driving: 15 to 30 minutes daily
Approach Walk: 03 to 04 hours (from base camp)
Stay in Pakistan: 07 Days
Hunt Duration: 03 Days (Fixed)
Lodging: Guest House / Motel &/or Camp
Meals: All Breakfasts, Lunches & Dinners
Local Sightseeing: Optional at extra cost.
Himalayan Ibex Hunting Safari Itinerary:
An Unforgettable Adventure in Pakistan
This itinerary outlines your upcoming Himalayan Ibex hunting safari in the majestic mountains of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan.
Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad
- Arrive at Islamabad International Airport.
Day 2: Journey to the Hunting Grounds
- Choose between a scenic flight or a comfortable drive to Gilgit, the gateway to your Himalayan adventure.
Day 3-5: The Hunt Begins
- Embark on a thrilling 3-day expedition to hunt for the magnificent Himalayan Ibex.
- Our experienced guides will lead you to the prime hunting grounds within Gilgit-Baltistan.
- Enjoy comfortable overnight stays in local rest houses or well-equipped tents.
- Delicious meals will be provided throughout your hunting experience.
Day 6: Departure from Islamabad
- After a successful hunt or an unforgettable adventure, depart Gilgit and fly or drive back to Islamabad.
- This marks the end of your Himalayan Ibex hunting safari.
Day 7: Return Home
- Depart from Islamabad International Airport and begin your journey back home.
Please Note:
- This is a sample itinerary and may be subject to change based on weather conditions, hunting success, and individual preferences.
- Additional activities or sightseeing excursions can be arranged upon request.
We look forward to welcoming you on this exciting Himalayan Ibex hunting adventure!
Services Included: (as per terms)
- Cost of hunting permit of 01 Himalayan Ibex.
- Car/Jeep from Gilgit city to the hunting area.
- 4WD Jeeps inside hunting area (03 days)
- 03 Nights in a room or tents in a hunting area.
- Full board meals in the hunting area.
- Soft drinks, tea/coffee in the hunting area.
- PH, game scouts, porters & security guards.
- Wages, meals & accommodation for staff.
- Liaison with Govt offices for issuance of permits.
- Free baggage allowance of 25 Kg on the trip.
- Free sightseeing in Karachi or Islamabad.
Services Not Included:
- Hotels, meals, transport & other services before & after hunting safari.
- Costs for import of hunting rifle & shooting license.
- Charges for skinning, dipping, trophy export, quarantine, packing & shipping.
- International or domestic air tickets & airport taxes for any client or staff.
- Arm, ammunition, tripod, binoculars, scope, clothing & personal gear.
- Portage, cargo, shipment, and transportation of excess baggage.
- Sleeping bag, rucksack, ponchos, umbrellas, rain gear & hunting gear.
- Phone & fax calls, room service, ala carte meals, and special food.
- Costs of medication, hospitalization & services of doctors.
- Charges for evacuation or rescue by ground ambulance, helicopter, or airplane.
- Hard drinks / Alcohol (liquor), room services, and meals on ala carte.
- Any service or product not agreed to or mentioned in our quotation & contract.
- Tips to waiters, bellboys, drivers, and porters at airports, hotels, restaurants & sites.
Ready to Book Your Himalayan Ibex Hunt?
Contact us today to discuss your dream Himalayan Ibex hunting safari in Pakistan. Don’t miss this opportunity to pursue a remarkable trophy in a breathtaking landscape.
Looking for a Different Challenge?
We also offer Sindh Ibex hunts. Visit our Ibex Hunts page to learn more.
we love to serve our customers
Ready to Book Your Himalayan Ibex Hunt?
Contact us today to discuss your dream Himalayan Ibex hunting safari in Pakistan. Don’t miss this opportunity to pursue a remarkable trophy in a breathtaking landscape.
Looking for a Different Challenge?
We also offer Sindh Ibex hunts. Visit our Ibex Hunts page to learn more.
