Exercise CautionUpdated 2025-10-09
There were no changes to the advisory level. The Other risk indicator was added. Advisory summary was updated Exercise increased caution in Sri Lanka due to unrest , terrorism, and landmines. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Advisory Summary: Demonstrations Protests over the economic and political situation in Sri Lanka can happen at any time. Police have used water cannons and tear gas to disperse protesters. Avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones. Protests could turn violent with little or no warning. Terrorism Terrorist attacks have occurred in Sri Lanka, with little or no warning. They may target: Tourist locations Transportation hubs Markets and shopping malls Government buildings Hotels, clubs, and restaurants Places of worship Parks Major sporting and cultural events Schools and hospitals Airports Other public areas The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in remote areas. Land mines Approximately 23 square kilometers of Sri Lanka have land mines left from its civil war. Most land mines have been cleared, but some areas in northern and eastern Sri Lanka are still dangerous. The highest concentration is in the northern districts of the Northern Province. This territory has dense forests and rough terrain. Warning signs with the international land mine symbol mark the areas of greatest risk. The symbol shows a skull and crossbones in a red, upside-down triangle. White markers indicate cleared land. If you decide to travel to Sri Lanka: There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Sri Lanka. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more. Avoid traveling off well-used roads, tracks, and paths due to risk of unexploded ordnance in certain areas of northern and eastern Sri Lanka, with the highest concentration of affected areas in the in the northern districts of the Northern Province. Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist lo