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Chandragupt II, the greatest of Gupt Kings, was Samudragupt's son. Later on he gave himself another name Chandragupt Vikramaaditya, which means the "Sun of valor". This name turned out to be right for him, because he made his father's empire even greater and stronger that it was in his father's times.

Chandragupt conquered the lands to the west. This gave him control over the sea-ports on the western coast. From these ports, ships took rubies, fine clothes and spices to be sold in Egypt, Rome and other countries and this trade brought great wealth to his empire. The golden age of ancient India attained its zenith during his reign.

Chandragupt ascended the throne in 376 AD. He was married to Dhruvaswaaminee and established similar matrimonial alliances with beautiful women of many ruling families to strengthen his position. With the assistance of these rulers, he conquered Maalavaa, Gujaraat, Sauraashtra, the whole of Northern and central India, together with the kingdoms of Kushaan, Pallav, Bangaal and Panjaab. According to an edict, his suzerainty extended over Bactria and Afghanistan. The Iron Pillar at Mehraulee near Delhi gives full information about his victorious campaigns.

His capital was at Ujjain (Avantee). It was the most flourishing centre for education, arts, literature and trade. Many other cities as well as
ports flourished. Chandragupt II was a devotee of Vishnu but like most of the rules of his time, was very liberal and tolerant towards other religions. The Jains, Buddhists and followers of other faiths had full freedom to practice their faith. There was all-round progress, peace and prosperity. Being deeply interested in literature, arts and science, he gave fillip to them. His court was full of eminent scholars, poets and artists. His nine gems included poet Kaalidaas, Amarsingh, Aaryabhatt, Varaah Mihir, Dhanvantari, Vasubandhu, Brahmagupt and Vishaakhdatt.

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