The march to Barygaza in 183 BCE.
Commanding one half of his army himself, Demetrius headed south down the Indus River, following in the footsteps of Alexander the Great, his role-model. Soon enough, after conquering everything in his path, he reached the Indian Ocean.However, as soon as he arrived there, serious problems began. Hearing of new troubles back in Bactria Demetrius himself was forced to return home- Eucratides had revolted and tried to take control of Bactria. Yet, this obstacle did not prevent him from continuing his plan for the conquest of India.
Putting his army under the command of Apollodotus -who was most likely either Demetrius’ youngest brother or one of his best generals- Demetrius ordered the conquest to go on without him. This move proved to be the wisest, since that army continued its successful course under Apollodotus' command, advancing as far south as the flourishing port of Barygaza (modern day Bharuch); a truly outstanding achievement for a Greek army.
The Greeks built cities on the western part of India,in the area of Gujarat, making them centers for trade. Ruins of these cities are still found today.
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