46But the other harsh reality is that
returning to the jungle is simply not
an option for trained pachyderms,
and so tourism offers a viable option
of survival for Thailand’s already
domesticated elephants – and a
livelihood for their mahouts.
Unfortunately, training these
elephants to perform for tourists
remains at the core of the roundup.
While you’re unlikely to witness any
outright cruelty towards the elephantsOne of Surin’s charms is that it lies off
the beaten track, and even though it may
feel like it’s bursting at the seams during
roundup time, it retains its laidback vibe
above A mahout bathes
an elephant at dawn