Selenge

Selenge is a province (aimag) in northern Mongolia. It is named after the Selenge River, which flows through the region and is part of the Selenga River basin that drains toward Lake Baikal in Russia. The aimag covers a varied landscape that includes river valleys, taiga forests, and steppe zones, reflecting a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers.

The administrative center is the town of Selenge. The aimag is subdivided into several sums (districts) that manage local governance and rural communities. The population is predominantly ethnic Mongol, with minority groups represented in smaller settlements. Many residents engage in traditional livelihoods such as livestock herding, crop farming, and forestry.

Economy and resources: Agriculture and animal husbandry are the mainstays, with grain production and dairy activities in suitable areas. Forestry and small-scale mining contribute to the local economy, while cross-border trade and transport along the Selenga River connect the aimag with neighboring regions in Russia. The river also supports fisheries and provides water for irrigation.

History and culture: The Selenge region has a long history of nomadic settlement and settlement patterns shaped by riverine landscapes. Cultural traditions, local crafts, and rural communities remain integral to the social fabric. Natural areas within the basin support wildlife and conservation efforts, contributing to regional biodiversity and potential for eco-tourism.