Back in 2002 I decided that the usual southern circuit of Cochin, Munnar, Periyar and the backwaters was so overdone and so I set off to explore Kerala’s northern Malabar Region and what an utter delight that turned out to be. That was the first time I made this itinerary and it turned out to be a massive hit. I recently revisited the region in 2023 and I am amazed (though delighted) to see that it is as fascinating and unspoilt and undiscovered as ever.  As well as barely heard of destinations (yes, in this day and age (don’t tell the instagrammers) what makes this itinerary really special is that it is made up of homestays and small, boutique hotels so one also gains an insight into the region from your hosts as well as the excellent guides. I’ve made some wonderful friends in this region, it’s definitely my firm favourite and one I’d do time and time again.