Port of Eastern Coast in the Sangam Age

Introduction: The Sangam Age was a period of South Indian history that lasted from the 3rd century BCE to the 4th century CE. During this period, the Tamils developed a rich culture, which included literature, music, dance, and trade. One of the key features of the Sangam Age was the flourishing of trade between South India and foreign lands, which was facilitated by the ports along the eastern and western coasts of the peninsula.

The Important Port of Eastern Coast in the Sangam Age:
The important port of the eastern coast during the Sangam Age was the port of Colchi. Colchi was located near the modern-day city of Kollam in Kerala. It was an important port for the trade of spices, particularly black pepper, and other commodities such as pearls, ivory, and textiles. Colchi was also known for its shipbuilding industry, which produced sturdy ships that were ideal for long sea voyages.

Other Ports on the Eastern Coast:
Apart from Colchi, there were several other ports on the eastern coast that played a significant role in the trade of the Sangam Age. These included:

- Tyndis: Located near the modern-day city of Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala, Tyndis was an important port for the trade of spices, particularly cardamom and cinnamon.

- Muziris: Located near the modern-day city of Kodungallur in Kerala, Muziris was an important port for the trade of spices, textiles, and precious stones. It was also known for its thriving Jewish community, which played a significant role in the trade of the port.

- Naura: Located near the modern-day city of Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu, Naura was an important port for the trade of pearls, ivory, and textiles. It was also known for its shipbuilding industry, which produced ships that were ideal for coastal trade.

Conclusion: The ports along the eastern coast played a significant role in the trade of the Sangam Age. They facilitated the exchange of goods between South India and foreign lands, and contributed to the development of a vibrant maritime culture. Colchi was the most important port on the eastern coast, but other ports such as Tyndis, Muziris, and Naura also played a significant role in the trade of the period.