Overview
The Gahadavala dynasty, an early medieval Indian dynasty also known as the Gahadavalas of Kannauj, ruled parts of present-day Uttar Pradesh and Bihar during the 11th and 12th centuries. Founded by Chandradeva around 1089 CE, its capital was Banaras (Varanasi), and it briefly controlled Kannauj. The kingdom reached its peak under Govindachandra, who annexed Kalachuri territories and repelled Ghaznavid raids. The dynasty's imperial power effectively ended in 1194 when Jayachandra was defeated by the Ghurid army. The Gahadavala kingdom was completely dissolved by 1197 CE after further defeats by the Delhi Sultanate.
Historical Periods
Gahadavala Dynasty (1085–1151)
1085 CE – 1151 CE
Area: 216,799 km²
Gahadavala Dynasty (1152–1191)
1152 CE – 1191 CE
Area: 216,592 km²
Gahadavala Dynasty (1192–1201)
1192 CE – 1201 CE
Area: 216,592 km²