The Difference Between Inner Mongolia and Mongolia

When travelers hear about Mongolia, they might not realize that there are actually two distinct regions: Mongolia (often called Outer Mongolia) and Inner Mongolia. Despite sharing a common cultural heritage, these two Mongolias have distinct political identities, historical paths, and modern characteristics.

Mongolia (Outer Mongolia)

• Country Name: Mongolia
• Official Language: Mongolian
• Population: Approximately 3.5 million (as of 2023)
• Scripts Used: Cyrillic alphabet and traditional Mongolian vertical script
• Population Density: Around 2 people per km², one of the lowest in the world
• Capital City: Ulaanbaatar (population ~1.6 million, nearly half of the country’s total)
• Major Religion: Tibetan Buddhism, with strong shamanic traditions still practiced

Modern Mongolia is a sovereign nation known for its expansive steppes, nomadic culture, the legacy of Genghis Khan, and rapidly developing capital city, Ulaanbaatar. It attracts visitors seeking adventure, traditional nomadic hospitality, and the peaceful landscapes of its countryside.

Inner Mongolia

• Region Name: Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
• Official Languages: Mongolian and Mandarin Chinese
• Population: Approximately 25 million (as of 2021), including around 5 million ethnic Mongolians
• Scripts Used: Traditional Mongolian vertical script and Chinese characters
• Capital City: Hohhot (“Blue City”), known for its historical temples and museums
• Major Religion: Buddhism, with Taoism and traditional Mongolian shamanism also practiced

Inner Mongolia is an autonomous region within the People’s Republic of China. It’s culturally vibrant, with bustling cities like Hohhot and Ordos, rich historical sites, and grasslands famous for traditional festivities and horse racing.

Historical Background: Why are there two Mongolias?

Mongolia was united in the 13th century under Genghis Khan, forming the Mongol Empire, which included China. After the Mongol Yuan Dynasty fell in 1368, Mongols retreated north, fragmenting into various tribes and khanates. In the 17th century, the Manchu-led Qing Dynasty gradually subdued these Mongolian tribes through alliances, military conquest, and diplomatic strategies. Mongolia was subsequently divided into two regions:

• Inner Mongolia: adjacent to China, heavily influenced by Chinese settlement.
• Outer Mongolia: further north, culturally distinct, retaining greater Mongolian independence.

After the Qing collapse in 1911, Outer Mongolia declared independence but faced resistance from China, which viewed it as Chinese territory. Inner Mongolia, geographically closer to China, remained under Chinese control or warlord influence.

Following Russia’s revolution in 1917, Outer Mongolia gained Soviet backing. In 1921, supported by the USSR, Outer Mongolia became fully independent from China and formed a socialist republic aligned with the Soviet Union.

Inner Mongolia stayed under Chinese authority, increasingly settled by Han Chinese. In 1947, the Chinese Communist Party established Inner Mongolia as an autonomous region, securing its integration into China.

After World War II, Outer Mongolia (now Mongolia) gained international recognition as an independent country. Inner Mongolia remained part of China as an autonomous region following the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949.

Today, Mongolia and Inner Mongolia offer travelers distinct experiences:

• Mongolia: Ideal for experiencing traditional nomadic culture, untouched nature, and historical sites linked to the great Mongol Empire.
• Inner Mongolia: Perfect for travelers interested in a blend of Mongolian traditions and Chinese influence, bustling city life, cultural festivals, and unique cuisine.

Both regions remain deeply connected through their shared heritage and traditions, despite historical and political boundaries.