Gavrilovka district is situated in the North-Eastern part of Tambov region, 150 km away from the regional center. The district was formed in 1935 after separation from Kirsanov district that was a part of Voronezh region back then. But, in 1963, Gavrilovka district was abolished and its territory was divided between Kirsanov and Pichayevo districts of Tambov region. However, Gavrilovka district reappeared in the map of Tambov region already in 1979.       

One of the historical occupations of the district residents was gathering of medicinal plants to prepare odorous teas. The district is rich in meadows overgrown with willowweed, St. John's wort, thyme and organium. This business is still popular today. Many people pick the plants, dry aromatic blossom clusters and prepare medicinal herbal tea.

The main attraction of the district is Intercession church in Gavrilovka village and Znamensky church in Zoya Kosmodemyanskaya’s birthplace in Osino-Guy village.