Western Ganga Dynasty was significant ruling dynasty of ancient Karnataka. Western Ganga Dynasty lasted from about 350 to 1000 AD. They are known as Western Ganga to distinguish them from the Eastern Western Ganga Dynasty who in later centuries ruled over Kalinga. The sovereignty of Western Ganga Dynasty lasted from about 350 to 550 AD, initially ruling from Kolar and later, moving their capital to Talkad on the banks of the Kaveri River in modern Mysore district of Karnataka.

The rule of Western Ganga Dynasty is important in the history of Karnataka, as this dynasty had a major contribution in arts, science and culture. After the emergence of Chalukya Dynasty of Badami, the Western Ganga Dynasty accepted Chalukya over lordship and fought for the cause of their overlords against the Pallava Dynasty of Kanchi.

Later, the Rashtrakuta Dynasty of Manyakheta replaced the Chalukyas in 753 AD, as Rashtrakutas were dominant in the power of Deccan Plateau Region. After a century of struggle for autonomy, the Western Ganga Dynasty finally accepted the over lordship of Rashtrakuta and successfully fought alongside them against their rivals, the Chola Dynasty of Tanjavur.

In the late 10th century AD that is during the Medieval Age in Indian History, the emerging Western Chalukya Empire replaced the Rashtrakutas and the Chola Dynasty saw renewed power south of the Kaveri River. The defeat of the Western Ganga Dynasty by Chola Dynasty around 1000 resulted in the end of the Western Ganga Dynasty influence over the region.

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