Elephant domestication has a long history in southeast asia. We tried out elephant transport on a trek in northern Thailand. Not the fastest or most comfortable way to get around, but it was cool to get up close to the giant beasts. I felt bad for our mount though, with the two of us on a seat and our guide sitting on her head. Better than a poaching I suppose. Momma elephant had her baby walking beside her the whole time.
outcosm.com 
Pretty cool!