The Maukhari Dynasty, classically called the Megar Dynasty, was a royal Indian dynasty that controlled vast areas of Northern India for over six generations. They earlier served as vassals of the Guptas as well as related to Harsha and his short-lived Vardhan dynasty. The Maukhari's established their independence at Kannauj, during the sixth century. The dynasty ruled over much of Uttar Pradesh and Magadha, however, around 606 A.D. large areas of their empire was reconquered by the Later Guptas.

Maukhari are gotra of Jats in India. Thakuri, the rulers of Nepal, also had relations with Maukharis as well as Harsha the ruler of Thanesar; due to the clans having marital relations.^{[citation needed]}

The game of chess (then called Chaturanga, meaning "army") was crystallized during their rule in the 6th century.^{[citation needed]}

There is definite evidence of Maukharis as an imperial power from 6th century A.D. Probably, Yagna Varman founded the dynasty. He was succeeded by Sardula Varman and in turn by Ananta Varaman. It is only during the reign of Isana Varman that the family rose to power and prestige. The empire is located in the modern state of Uttar Pradesh. It is only from Isana Varman onwards that the family ceased to be feudatories.