The correct answer is option 3 - Portuguese. The credit of discovering the sea route to India goes to the Portuguese. In the late 15th century, Portuguese explorers, led by Vasco da Gama, successfully sailed around the Cape of Good Hope and reached the coast of India in 1498. This discovery opened up a lucrative trade route between Europe and India, allowing the Portuguese to establish a long-lasting presence in the region. The Portuguese were the first Europeans to directly engage in trade with India and their exploration and colonization had a significant impact on the history and culture of India. However, it is important to note that while the Portuguese were the first to find the sea route, other European powers such as the Dutch, English, and French also later established their presence and competed for control over India.