Kangra is a massive fort in modern-day Himachal Pradesh, in the low foothills of the Himalayas. The Hindu kings who ruled Kangra, for over two centuries after the coming of Islam, are almost unknown in history. Their existence is shadowy and the dating of their reigns remains tentative. The coins are not well-studied, and hard to find with clear legends.

Kangra is a composite word made out of Kaann (meaning ear) + Gaddha (create/mold).

Town of Kangra was founded by Katoch Kshatriya Rajputs of Chandervanshi Lineage. The Katoch Rajas had a stronghold here, with a fort and lavish temples.

Another ancient name of the city is Bhimagar and it was supposedly founded by Raja Bhim, younger brother of Kuru Emperor Yudhishthira of Indraprastha (now Delhi).