If you’re setting out from Narkanda, you have one lovely possible stop right around the bend, so to speak. Banjara Camps’ Thanedar Orchard Retreat offers a range of accommodation, surrounded, of course, by orchards and great views of the mountains. If you’d like to get further up the mountain before parking for your first stop, carry on up to Banjara Camps’ Sojha Retreat, situated in a small village near the Jalori Pass. See www.banjaracamps.com. But what I am really saying, perhaps, is that you’re now within striking distance of that pioneer of affordable homestay accommodation in breathtaking surroundings: called Raju’s Guest House in the Tirthan Valley, this is a must-do. Simple and unpretentious as it is, there’s no website; the closest they get to one is https://www.facebook.com/rajuscottage.goshaini or try 9459833124/9459227375. Then if you’re willing to drive further up, head to Neeralaya, on the road between Kullu and Manali. Yes, it’s a resort and, yes, it’s new and luxurious. But staying at Gushaini will give you some extra cash in hand, so why not spend it on this beautiful resort, completely cut off from the madding crowds (www.neeralaya.com). A week here, and then you might want to start making your way down, in the direction of Shimla. But not to Shimla! Where you want to go is Mashobra, a quiet hamlet that offers several peaceful hideaways. Try the elegant Violet Hill (9815442233) or the more modern Forest Hill Villas (www.foresthillvillas.com). After Mashobra, head further south to another secluded retreat, The Leopard’s Den in Rajgarh.

This can be your final stop before you hit the North Indian plains, a week at a little known retreat with charming independent bungalows amid abundant greenery and the odd, you know, leopard…Again, no website, but call 9815941939 or see https://www.facebook.com/Theleopardsden/. I haven’t mentioned tariffs anywhere, because if you’re booking this far in advance and for at least a week at each place, you’re certain to land special prices.