The Pothohar Plateau (Western Punjabi: پوٹھوار; alternatively spelled Potohar or Pothwar, is also known as the Panjistan) is a plateau in north-eastern Pakistan, forming the northern part of Punjab. It borders the western parts of Azad Kashmir and the southern parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The region was once the home of the ancient Soanian culture, which is evidenced by the discovery of fossils, tools, coins, and remains of ancient archaeological sites.
The Potohari dialect of Punjabi language dominate the region, while the standard Majhi dialect and Hindko are also spoken. Other dialects include Dhani diaelect, Shahpuri and Chacchi.
Potohar is home to many different clans including Abbasi, Awans, Jatts, Bhatti Rajputs, Janjua Rajputs, Jasgams, Minhas Rajputs, Satti Rajputs, Gujjars, Gakhar clans and many others. Potohar was known as Paurava in the past and the king of this region was King Porus and he is known for the famous battle with Alexander between the regions of Jhelum and Indus rivers.
