Chera dynasty (Tamil: சேரர்), ruling from before the Sangam Age (3rd century BC to 3rd century AD) until the 12th century AD, is one of the most ancient ruling dynasties in India. Together with the Cholas and the Pandyas, they formed the three principal warring Iron Age Tamil kingdoms in India in the early centuries of the Christian Era.

During the time of Mauryas in northern India (c. 4th-3rd century BC) the Cheras (along with the Pandyas and the Cholas) were in a late megalithic phase on the western coast of ancient Tamil land. The cultural exchange with the northern India and the flourishing trade with the Roman Empire later contributed to the state formation. The Cheras probably expanded their kingdom from Kuttanad region (central Kerala) to northward (Kudanad, Puzhinadu) and eastward (Kongunad).

The Cheras were in continues conflict with neighboring Cholas and Pandyas. Some Chera rules are said to have defeated the combined armies of the Pandyas and the Cholas and their ally states. They also made battles with the Kadambas of Banavasi and the "Yavanas" (Romans) on the Indian coast.