In 1931, the People’s Government of Mongolia separated Dornod aimag from Khentii aimag to establish it as an independent province. During the early stages of World War II, in the 1939 Battle of Khalkhin Gol, Mongolian and Soviet forces achieved a remarkable victory over Japanese invaders. Dornod aimag is known as the birthplace of Mongolia’s heroic victory, where enemy aircraft were shot down.

Dornod aimag boasts rich wildlife, including moose, deer, bears, wild boar, lynx, raccoons, and wildcats in the forests of the Onon, Ulz, and Khalkha rivers, as well as an abundance of animals throughout the region. The area is home to predatory birds such as eagles, hawks, and owls; waterfowl like geese, ducks, and swans; and game birds like pheasants, cranes, bustards, and grouse. Rare birds like the endangered whooper swan, peacock, and other species unique to the world, such as the Daurian crane and Mongolian lark, also inhabit the region.

Dornod aimag is rich in historical sites, including the ruins of Khirlen Bars city from the 10th-11th century Khitan era, the ancient Herem Road, the man-made Uta Tavan mountain, Ikh Burkhant, stone figures, and the ruins of Ugtam Monastery, as well as various monuments commemorating the 1939 victory at Khalkhin Gol.