The Indian Ocean Route refers to the maritime network connecting various ports around the Indian Ocean basin. It facilitated extensive trade between East Africa, Arabia, India, Southeast Asia, and China during ancient times.
Related terms
Monsoon winds: Seasonal winds that blow predictably in certain directions across the Indian Ocean region, which greatly assisted maritime navigation.
Swahili Coast: The East African coastal region influenced by Indian Ocean trade and characterized by a blend of African, Arab, and Persian cultures.
Zheng He: A Chinese explorer who led seven large naval expeditions in the early 15th century to assert Chinese dominance in the Indian Ocean.