Tourist interactions with elephants in Asia cause severe welfare harms; responsible alternatives that support genuine conservation are available.
The phajaan process involves confining calves, sleep deprivation, starvation, and physical pain to break their spirit for human compliance. Elephants performing in shows are typically kept in chains when not performing. Riding causes spinal damage and foot sores from concrete surfaces. Even ostensibly 'rescue' centres may still use chains and problematic training. Welfare-positive sanctuaries allow natural behaviour without performances or riding.