Which ocean lies between Africa, Asia, Australia and the Southern Ocean?

The Indian Ocean lies between Africa, Asia, Australia and the Southern Ocean.

It is the third-largest of the world’s five oceanic divisions, covering roughly one-fifth of the water area of Earth. Its northern boundary is formed mainly by Asia, while Africa lies to the west, Australia to the east and the Southern Ocean to the south. The ocean connects to the Atlantic around southern Africa and to the Pacific through waters near Indonesia.

The Indian Ocean has long been central to maritime trade. Seasonal monsoon winds helped sailors travel between East Africa, Arabia, India and Southeast Asia, creating commercial and cultural links centuries before modern navigation. Important routes still carry petroleum, manufactured goods and food products across the region.

The name reflects the ocean’s association with the Indian subcontinent, although its waters touch many countries. Major islands include Madagascar, Sri Lanka and the Maldives.