Why Elephants Should Never Be Ridden: What Most Tourists Don’t Know

“Riding an elephant might look magical. But for the elephant, it’s anything but.”

Across Asia, elephant riding is still marketed as a “bucket list” experience. But what most travelers don’t see is the pain behind the pictures. At Eve97 Elephant Sanctuary, we’re here to change the story—and help you travel with compassion.

The Hidden Cruelty Behind Elephant Rides

Elephants used for rides go through a process called phajaan—a cruel training method meant to break their spirit. Baby elephants are separated from their mothers, tied up, beaten, and deprived of sleep and food until they submit. It’s heartbreaking, and it happens more than you’d think.

Even after this “training,” the pain continues. Carrying heavy tourists and wooden seats for hours each day damages the elephant’s spine. Their feet suffer from walking on hard, unnatural ground. Most never get proper medical care or rest.

What Makes Observation-Only Sanctuaries Different

At Eve97, we believe elephants deserve to be elephants—free to roam, eat, play, and rest as they choose. We never allow riding, bathing, or hugging. Instead, visitors quietly observe the elephants in their natural routine, from a respectful distance.

Observation is powerful. When you stand in silence and watch a rescued elephant tear leaves with her trunk, splash in the mud, or gently lean on her best friend—you feel something shift. It’s more meaningful than any ride ever could be.

Your Choices Matter

Every traveler has the power to support or stop cruelty. By choosing sanctuaries that focus on ethical treatment and observation, you send a clear message: elephants are not entertainment—they are living beings with emotions, memories, and the right to peace.

How You Can Help

• Say no to elephant rides, selfies, or bathing experiences.
• Support sanctuaries like Eve97 that follow ethical practices.
• Share what you’ve learned with friends and family.
• Leave honest reviews to guide other travelers.

Elephants like Dao, Mali, and Tara now live free from harm because people like you chose better. The change starts with one visit, one voice, one decision.

Book your visit to Eve97 today—and be part of a kinder future for elephants.