The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is once again advising against all but essential travel to Sri Lanka.

The FCDO originally warned travellers against visiting the Indian Ocean destination in May due to “political and economic instability” in the country, but relaxed its rules last month.

However, it has now reinstated its warning due to a “severe economic crisis” in the country, which it says has caused “violent unrest” and widespread shortages of basic necessities.

The FCDO website states: “Sri Lanka is experiencing a severe economic crisis which has led to shortages of basic necessities including medicines, cooking gas, fuel and food.

“There is also a major shortage or diesel and petrol affecting transport, businesses and emergency services. There are daily power cuts due to electricity rationing. This has led to protests and violent unrest.

“Further protests, demonstrations, roadblocks and violent unrest could occur at short notice.”