karkota empire (c. 625 - 885 ce) was a major power in the indian subcontinent during 7th and 8th century. it was founded by durlabhvardhana during the lifetime of harshavardhan. the dynasty marked the rise of kashmir as a power in northern india. avanti varman ascended the throne of kashmir on 855 a.d., establishing the utpala dynasty and ending the rule of karkota dynasty.