After showcasing wildlife and culture, Assam tourism is all set to focus on river tourism. The biggest and most modern cruise liner is being launched next month.

Briefing newsmen, State principal secretary, Himanshu Shekhar Das announced this adding that the cruise ship has already reached Guwahati. The principal secretary was briefing newsmen on the eve of the inauguration of the 26th Surajkund Craft Mela, whereAssam is the Theme State this year.

The entire mela ground has been done up to present the Assamese way of life complete with an ‘Assam Ghar’ where a family would live for the next 15 days depicting day-to-day rural life. Traditional handicrafts and handloom, cultural programmes would be on display and Assamese food would be served.

The fortnight-lone mela would be inaugurated by Chief Minister, Tarun Gogoi on Wednesday. Thailand has been made the partner nation. The principal secretary said that some 50 stalls would show-casing handlooms of which 30 would be for the weavers. Some renowned craftsmen have been brought over to show case their works. A fashion show has also been organised.