The US State Department has cautioned US citizens against travelling to Nepal, saying that the Maoist party remains a danger despite having recently joined the interim government.

“The Department of State remains concerned about the security situation in Nepal and continues to urge American citizens contemplating a visit to Nepal to obtain updated security information before they travel,” a statement by the government on Monday reads.

It further says, “Despite the signing of a comprehensive peace agreement by the government and Maoist insurgents and their entry into an interim government, Maoists continue to engage in violence, extortion, and abductions.”

The US government also claimed that Maoists freely roamed around the countryside and cities, openly bearing their weapons.

“Given the nature, intensity and unpredictability of disturbances, American citizens are urged to exercise special caution during times when demonstrations are announced, avoid areas where demonstrations are occurring or crowds are forming, avoid road travel and maintain a low profile,” the statement says further.

In a recent report on terrorism, the US government had maintained the party Maoist its list of terrorist organisation.