Ancient and Early Medieval Maritime Trade

Sangam Ports of Western Coast | Tondi and Mushiri

Tondi and Mushiri (Muziris) were the primary Sangam period ports located on India's western coast, primarily serving the Chera kingdom's maritime trade.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class VI - Our Pasts I

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Which of the following Sangam ports were situated on the western coast?
1. Korkai
2. Puhar
3. Tondi
4. Mushiri

[U.P.P.C.S. Pre 2012]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


During the Sangam period, the Tamilakam region had a flourishing maritime trade with the Roman Empire and Southeast Asia. Ports were strategically located on both the Malabar (Western) and Coromandel (Eastern) coasts.

Authentic Source Evidence


According to the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea and Sangam literature, Tyndis (Tondi) and Muziris (Mushiri) were major western ports located in present-day Kerala. Korkai and Puhar were eastern ports belonging to the Pandyas and Cholas respectively.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: Tondi and Mushiri (Muziris) were situated on the West Coast (Chera territory). Tondi was north of Muziris, near modern-day Koyilandy.

  • Logic 2: Korkai was an eastern port (Pandya capital/port) known for pearl fishery. Puhar (Kaveripoompattinam) was the principal eastern port of the Early Cholas.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "What was the primary export from the western Sangam ports to Rome?"

    Black pepper, known as 'Yavana Priya' (dear to the Greeks/Romans), was the most valued export from ports like Mushiri.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "The western ports were the first point of contact for Greco-Roman traders, making them the wealthiest trade hubs of the early centuries AD."

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