Polonnaruwa the medieval capital of Sri Lanka from 1017 to 1235 A.D. is situated in the dry zone plane towards the North East of the island. It is 216 Km far from Colombo, present capital of Sri Lanka.

Population and population density is considerably low in comparison with other districts in the island. In terms of census took place in 2001, population is approximately four hundred thousand and annual growth rate is 1.6%. Population density is 177 Km2. Sinhalese, Tamils and Muslims are living in Polonnaruwa as ethnic wise and their religion are Buddhism, Hindu, Islam, Roman Catholic and other Christian sectors.

Most of the community in Polonnaruwa district fined their means of sustenance through agriculture and the majority is engaged in paddy cultivation. Through the reconstruction of ancient magical irrigation system, present cultivations are watered and the district of Polonnaruwa contributes at a considerable level to total paddy production of Sri Lanka. In addition to paddy cultivation, other crops are also being cultivated and fishing industry also in operation in major reservoirs and at the same time people too engage in animal husbandry as well.

According to the census of 2001, 47% of people are below the poverty line and such families are eligible to have “Samurdhi" subsidies from the government.

Education level of the district in lower than Colombo and the total number of schools in the district are 231 and number of student, are approximately 90,000 and 3500 teachers are serving in these schools.

Health facilities in the district are not in a satisfactory level and in addition to the base hospital Polonnaruwa, 23 rural hospitals are in operation in the district. Transport facilities are at a satisfactory level. However the road network in the district is not at a satisfactory level.

Polonnaruwa district has become absolutely significant in tourism. The medieval capital of Sri Lanka, presently the area with full of ruins and people, intact the tourists come this way never forget to visit these ancient monuments and at the same time hotel industry has also reached high proportion to host the tourists.

Polonnaruwa is the model environmental district of Sri Lanka and found many national parks, including Minneriya, Girithale, Wasgamuwa, Kaudulla and Somawathiya. Common characteristics of dry zone forest in Sri Lanka can be seen in these national parks, and Minnariya and Girithale are very popular among tourist, for echo tourism.

Currently, Polonnaruwa district is some what industrial lined and it is obvious that it is stepping toward development together with an environmental friendly background.