My Journey to See the Elephants: A Bittersweet Experience

 The excitement was palpable as I arrived in Pattaya. The first thing on my mind was seeing elephants. I’d always been fascinated by these majestic creatures, and the thought of finally encountering them in person filled me with joy.

As I entered the place where the elephants were, I paid around 1,200 baht. The cost included not just entry but also a coffee, which I shared with Ana, my Grab driver. I had invited her to accompany me—partly because I wanted some local insight and partly because she seemed kind and eager to join. While sipping our iced coffees, I spotted an elephant in the distance, gracefully walking with a passenger on its back. The sight was surreal.

“I want to do that too,” I told Ana, my enthusiasm bubbling over. She smiled and nodded, clearly as intrigued as I was. As we approached, I found myself marveling at the size and presence of the elephant. Its thick, wrinkled skin fascinated me, but I hesitated to reach out and touch it. Tamed though they were, their sheer size was still intimidating.

When it was my turn to ride, I climbed onto the elephant’s back, feeling both exhilarated and slightly apprehensive. The experience was unlike anything I’d ever done. From my elevated position, I could see so much more of the area, but then something caught my eye. Under a nearby shed, a group of elephants stood—a mother and her baby among them. They were chained.

A pang of guilt struck me. The joy I had felt moments earlier began to wane, replaced by a heavy sadness. I couldn’t stop thinking about the chains, about the confinement these animals endured. They were magnificent, intelligent creatures, and seeing them in such a state was heartbreaking.

As the elephant carried me past the group, my chest tightened with a deep sense of regret. I couldn’t shake the thought that by participating in this activity, I was contributing to their suffering. What had started as an exciting adventure now felt cruel and exploitative.

Reflecting on the experience, I realize the importance of being mindful of the ethical implications of tourism. While it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of unique opportunities, we must consider the impact our choices have on animals and the environment. If I ever encounter elephants again, I hope it’s in a setting where they’re treated with the respect and freedom they deserve.