During the Gupta period as it is called as the Golden age,because at this time,India was a vibrant civilization where trade and commerce flourished and people lived in peace and prosperity.

Trade and Commerce during Gupta Period
Trade and commerce played a significant role in the economy of ancient India, especially during the Gupta period. Here are some key points to understand trade and commerce during this time:

1. Extensive Trade Networks:
- The Gupta Empire had well-established trade networks that extended to various regions within and outside the Indian subcontinent.
- Trade routes linked India to Central Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Roman Empire, facilitating the exchange of goods and ideas.

2. Trade Routes:
- The Silk Road was a major trade route that connected India to China, Central Asia, and the Mediterranean region.
- The Indian Ocean trade route was another important maritime route that connected India to East Africa, Arabia, and Southeast Asia.

3. Agricultural Surplus:
- The fertile lands of the Gangetic plain produced surplus agricultural goods like rice, wheat, and sugarcane, which were traded both locally and internationally.
- The surplus agricultural produce served as a foundation for the thriving trade and commerce during the Gupta period.

4. Urban Centers and Markets:
- Urban centers like Pataliputra, Mathura, and Ujjain served as important hubs of trade and commerce, attracting merchants and traders from different regions.
- Markets and trade fairs were common in these urban centers, where a variety of goods were bought and sold.

5. Barter System and Coinage:
- The barter system was prevalent in trade, where goods were exchanged for other goods without the use of money.
- However, the Gupta period also saw the introduction of coins as a medium of exchange, making trade more efficient and standardized.

6. Goods Traded:
- Various goods were traded during the Gupta period, including spices, textiles, precious stones, and metals like gold and silver.
- Luxury items like silk, ivory, and perfumes were also in demand among the affluent classes.
In conclusion, trade and commerce flourished during the Gupta period, contributing to the prosperity and cultural exchange in ancient India.