Trade and Trade Routes in Ancient India c8.7

c8.7

It is difficult to determine the stages of the route taken by Alexander. We know that the modern route between Kabul and Herat passes through Ghazni, Kandhar and Farah but it is difficult to say whether Alexander also passed through those stages. The Alexandrias of Arthakoana and Aria must have been situated somewhere near Herat. But the ancient capital of Drangine was situated in the south towards Zarang. This indicates that the ancient route did not cross the Helmand river at Girishk but at Bestai of Pliny, the Bust of the Arabs and now Galebist which is situated above Helmand and Aragandab. From here began Arakhosia and the lower valleys of the Helmand and its tributaries were included within its boundaries. Its ancient capital and Alexandria were perhaps situated on the right bank of the Helmand though modern Gandar is situated on its left bank, from where during the Islamic period the grand route started from Kabul. But according to Hsüan Tsang the route between Arakhosia and Kapiśa followed the course of the Aragandab. The archaeological remains at Jagur support this. Owing to many geographical impediments this route was abandoned.