Higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh have witnessed unseasonal snowfall. Popular tourist destinations such as Gulmarg and Rohtang Pass were also covered in snow. The snowfall comes at a time when the monsoon is expected to begin withdrawing from most parts of the country. Snowfall in September is being viewed by some as unusual and as a possible sign of an early winter in the mountains, though no detailed meteorological data or expert statement has been provided to substantiate this claim.