Board your overnight Volvo from Delhi and let the journey carry you north through the plains and into the foothills. By morning, the mountains will be waiting.

Spend the day in McLeodganj, the lively hill town that sits above Dharamshala and serves as home to the Tibetan government-in-exile. Visit the Dalai Lama Temple, Bhagsunath Temple, and the peaceful Bhagsu Waterfall, then walk past St. John's Church and the War Memorial before exploring the local market in the evening.

Drive down to the Kangra Valley for a day of history and heritage. Visit the Kangra Fort, one of the oldest and largest forts in the Himalayas, along with the Bajreshwari Devi Temple and the Kangra Museum before returning to Dharamshala for the night.

Drive to Dalhousie, a colonial-era hill station spread across five hills with a calm, old-world feel that sets it apart. Arrive and spend the evening browsing the local market at your own pace.

Drive to Khajjiar, often called India's Mini Switzerland, a wide green meadow ringed by tall deodar trees and a small lake at its centre. Back in Dalhousie, visit Panchpula, the old churches, Subhash Chowk, and the Tibetan Market.

Drive back to Dharamshala and board your overnight Volvo to Delhi, heading home from a trip that moved slowly enough to actually enjoy.