The last known Chera ruler, Cheraman Perumal converted to Islam, and built the first mosque in India around AD 629. This mosque is situated at present-day Kodungalloor in Kerala.
Kerala and parts of southern Tamil Nadu formed the Chera kingdom. They ruled from ancient times until around the 12th century AD with Tiruvanchikulam near Kodungalloor as their main capital. The earliest ruler of repute of Cheras was Udayan Cheralatan. The most renowned Chera ruler was Senguttuvan.
The Cheras rivalled the neighbouring dynasties of Cholas and Pandyas in prosperity. Trade flourished throughout their reign. Spices, ivory, timber, pearls and gems were exported to Egypt, Rome, Greece, Phoenicia, Arabia, Mesopotamia and Persia. The Cheras faded from history by the 12th century AD.
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