Mongolia is divided into 21 provinces, known as aimags, and one special administrative area, Ulaanbaatar, the capital. Each aimag is subdivided into soums (districts) and baghs (villages or smaller administrative units). This hierarchical system ensures governance at both the regional and local levels, covering Mongolia’s extensive and sparsely populated landmass.

Ulaanbaatar serves as the heart of Mongolia. Positioned in the north-central part of the country, the city is Mongolia’s political, economic, and cultural epicenter. Approximately half of Mongolia’s population resides in Ulaanbaatar, making it the most urbanized area of the nation. The city is known for its blend of modern skyscrapers, traditional ger districts, and historic landmarks.

The 21 Aimags of Mongolia

Each of Mongolia’s provinces has its administrative center, cultural identity, and economic focus.

  1. Arkhangai – Tsetserleg
  2. Bayan-Ölgii – Ölgii
  3. Bayankhongor – Bayankhongor
  4. Bulgan – Bulgan
  5. Darkhan-Uul – Darkhan
  6. Dornod – Choibalsan
  7. Dornogovi – Sainshand
  8. Dundgovi – Mandalgovi
  9. Govi-Altai – Altai
  10. Govisümber – Choir
  11. Khentii – Öndörkhaan
  12. Khovd – Khovd
  13. Khuvsgul – Murun
  14. Orkhon – Erdenet
  15. Ömnögovi – Dalanzadgad
  16. Selenge – Sükhbaatar
  17. Sukhbaatar – Baruun-Urt
  18. Töv – Zuunmod
  19. Uvs – Ulaangom
  20. Zavkhan – Uliastai
  21. Ulaanbaatar – Ulaanbaatar

The 21st aimag (province) of Mongolia is Ulaanbaatar, the capital city. While Ulaanbaatar is often considered separately due to its status as a special administrative area, it is included in the count of the 21 provinces or aimags of Mongolia. Its administrative center is Ulaanbaatar itself.

While Ulaanbaatar is the bustling center of the country, much of Mongolia remains rural. The vast countryside is characterized by open steppes, mountains, and deserts, where many people continue to lead nomadic or semi-nomadic lifestyles. The administrative divisions ensure that even the most remote areas are connected to the broader national governance structure.

Mongolia’s administrative divisions highlight the country’s blend of urban development and rural traditions. By understanding Mongolia’s administrative framework, visitors and researchers can better appreciate its diversity and the efforts to maintain unity across its vast terrain.