Hunt for Chinese admiral Zheng He’s lost treasure ship heats up Indian Ocean


By AGENCY

Journeys of Zheng He: 1405-1433. — Simplified version based on map by CONTINENTALIS/Wikimedia Commons

During an epic naval battle between Chinese and local forces off the coast of Sri Lanka more than 600 years ago, a massive treasure ship laden with gold, precious gems, and religious artefacts was scuppered and sank to the bottom of the Indian Ocean.

According to the history books, the vessel (or vessels – no one knows for sure exactly how many ships might have sunk) was part of the fleet of Chinese admiral Zheng He, one of the greatest maritime adventurers of all time. But while stories of his exploits abound in Chinese texts, no hard evidence has ever been found to prove the existence of his ships.

Save 30% OFF The Star Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 9.73/month

Billed as RM 9.73 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.63/month

Billed as RM 103.60 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Living

Malaysian master sake sommelier creates new glass for better sake appreciation
Hungary's 'water guardian' farmers fight back against desertification
SinggahKL 2026 offers public chance to learn and appreciate Kuala Lumpur's architecture
Apricot by Peaches and Cream celebrates decadent European-centric comfort food
Are home remedies like honey, garlic and hot chicken soup able to fix colds?
Saving for life’s surprises: How to build an emergency financial fund
Contradictheory: Not all of us are Ferrari drivers
Dear Thelma: I’m still torn between a past and present relationship
As Italy allows alcohol-free wine, might this be the month to try it?
Second-hand shopping in China has evolved into a trendy, eco-friendly lifestyle

Others Also Read