Alexander's Journey Through Gedrosian Desert

Alexander's journey through the Gedrosian Desert was a critical phase in his campaign as he returned to Persia after his conquests in India. Following the Battle of the Hydaspes, he decided to take a southern route through the harsh terrain of the Gedrosian Desert and Makran, while sending a portion of his army under General Craterus to Carmania. This decision was strategic, as it allowed him to maintain control over his forces while exploring the Persian Gulf with a fleet led by Admiral Nearchus. However, the journey through the desert proved to be treacherous. The extreme conditions, including intense heat and scarcity of water, took a heavy toll on his troops. Reports indicate that many soldiers succumbed to the harsh environment, leading to significant losses in manpower. The challenges faced during this trek highlighted the difficulties of sustaining an army in such inhospitable conditions and underscored the resilience required to continue the campaign.