Australia advise it's citizens to exercise a high degree of caution to visit Sri Lanka!

This Advice was last issued on Friday, 17 January 2014.   It contains new information under Entry and Exit (ensure you apply for the correct visa for your visit to Sri Lanka. You risk deportation for engaging in activities outside your visa conditions) and Health (update on dengue fever incidence in Sri Lanka). We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in Sri Lanka at this time because of the unpredictable security environment.

We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in Sri Lanka at this time because of the unpredictable security environment.

Security forces maintain a visible presence throughout the country. Military and police checkpoints are present along some roads and road closures can occur without warning.

You should avoid all demonstrations and large public gatherings as they may turn violent or be a target for politically-motivated attacks. Police have used tear gas in response to protests.

In the Northern Province of Sri Lanka, which includes Mannar, Vavuniya, Mullaitivu, Kilinochichi and Jaffna Districts, post-conflict security force activity is ongoing.

In both the Northern and Eastern Provinces you should stay on main roads and pay close attention to signs warning of danger from landmines.

Foreign passport holders, including diplomats and international and local non-government organisation personnel, no longer require approval from the Ministry of Defence to travel to the north of Sri Lanka. However, individuals and groups intending to visit military establishments or High Security Zones or to meet military officials still require specific approval from the Ministry of Defence.

Pay careful attention to the type of visa you apply for. Travellers risk deportation if they engage in activities outside their visa conditions.

All regions of Sri Lanka experience outbreaks of the mosquito-borne dengue fever. Almost half of the cases in 2013 were reported in Western Province, where Colombo is located. See Health Issues below for more information.

Because of the prevailing security situation, we strongly recommend that you register your travel and contact details with us so we can contact you in an emergency.

Be a smart traveller. Before heading overseas:

• organise comprehensive travel insurance and check what circumstances and activities are not covered by your policy
• subscribe to this travel advice to receive free email updates each time it's reissued.