During the Gupta dynasty (c. 320–550 CE), external trade flourished and several coastal towns emerged as significant maritime centres. Ghantasala and Kadura were located on the eastern coast (Andhra region) and functioned as active ports facilitating overseas commerce, particularly with Southeast Asia and other regions.

Ghantasala: Located in present-day Andhra Pradesh, Ghantasala served as an eastern coastal port actively engaged in maritime trade with Southeast Asia and possibly even with the Roman world.

Kadura: Also located in the Andhra region (eastern coast), Kadura functioned as a significant port under the Gupta-era trade network and handled trade goods like textiles, spices, and ivory.

Chaul:  located on the western coast in present-day Maharashtra, acted as a western seaport linking India with Western Asia and was known for trade in cotton textiles and other goods.