[citation needed] Its administrative center is the urban locality (a work settlement) of Balagansk.

The name Balagansk originates from the Bulagat, literally sable hunters, a Buryat tribe.

[9] From 1655, mass settlement started in the area; eventually, a colony was built and iron mining developed.

[13] In the course of the administrative reform carried out in 1708 by Peter the Great, the territory was included into Siberia Governorate.

[10] During the construction of Bratsk Hydroelectric Power Station Balagansk disappeared under water.