In ancient South India, particularly during the Sangam period, several port cities flourished along the coast, facilitating extensive trade with the Roman Empire and other regions.

• Korkai: Located on the Tamiraparani river, it was an important port of the Pandya kingdom, famous for its pearl fisheries.
• Poompuhar (also known as Kaveripattinam): Situated at the mouth of the Kaveri river, it was the main port of the Chola kingdom and a major center of trade.
• Muchiri (also known as Muziris): Located on the Malabar coast (present-day Kerala), it was a prominent port of the Chera kingdom and a vital hub for the spice trade with Rome.

Therefore, all three cities—Korkai, Poompuhar, and Muchiri—were well-known as ports.