Based on my research, the North Indians (Literally north part of India, and Pakistani people) were travelers, and Indians have had frigates since the 17th century. So why is it that they didn't try to stake out parts of Africa, surrounding Asian areas, or the Americas for themselves?
But they did, to a certain extent.
I feel like this should be included in the FAQ. To clarify, it was everyone except North Indians who undertook sea expeditions since in common terminology the heart of North India lies vaguely in the interior and away from the coast. If you take a look at the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea you can see that the West and East coasts of India are littered with trading ports.
There has been an Indian/Hindu presence in South East Asia for more than 2000 years primarily due to proximity and trade. Reference
The biggest name commonly exchanged is the Chola dynasty, a Tamil dynasty who ruled parts of present day Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia. Rajendra Chola invaded parts of the Srivijaya empire in present day Sumatra.
The Indian state of Orissa, historically known as Kalinga, also has a history of maritime trade. They celebrate an annual festival named Bali Jatra, which literally translates to "Journey to Bali"