Ambala Garden Lodge is a very private and serene property set on ¾ of an acre on the hillside overlooking world famous Muri beach, on the tropical South Pacific island of Rarotonga.

It is a business being operated as a Bed & Breakfast, or self catering if you prefer, by your Canadian hosts Esa and Nancy Aatelma.  We have traveled extensively and have now retired and have found Rarotonga to be a true paradise.  With it’s year round warm climate, friendly and truly honest people, a better place on earth can not be found.

Ambala Garden Lodge is fully accredited by the Tourism Corporation of The Cook Islands.

The main house consists of five very private bedroom units each with their own ensuite.

Upon entering the property from Ambala Road you are among lush tropical gardens featuring such native indigenous plants as Royal Palms, Bottle Palms, mango, and breadfruit trees.  Most of these plants were planted from seed and cared for and nurtured to produce this wonderful outdoor setting.

As our guests go onto the upstairs floor there is a spacious veranda which contains tables and chairs to sit and relax in.  The veranda also contains a pool table for the use of the guests. 

The bedrooms are well appointed with local art and crafts highlighting some local artists.  All linen is Egyptian cotton, (much cooler), with light duvets coverings.  Overhead fans have also been installed, instead of artificial air conditioning.  All beds are queen size and very comfortable.

Once back outside our guests can wonder among the tropical gardens and enjoy the variety of plants, or go to the lower section and enjoy the canopied glide swing while watching fish in the man made ponds.  There is also a man made stream gently cascading over rocks in the stream connecting the ponds.

If exercise is your thing one can use the 10 meter in ground fresh water pool.  We do however add a small amount of salt into the pool instead of chlorine.  This is an effort to go green and not use harsh chemicals.  We also have, for complementary use by our guests, a “BOWFLEX” Ultimate home gym.  You will be capable of strength training with over 100 different exercises.  And just think if one breaks a sweat, the exercise room is a mere 20 or so steps from the pool.

Getting to Rarotonga is easier than ever with daily flight via Air New Zealand from Auckland, a mere four hour away.  There is also weekly service via Air New Zealand with a direct flight from LAX, Los Angeles.  Air Tahiti also has a twice weekly service flying in from Tahiti.

Upon your arrival at Rarotonga international airport an airport transfer shuttle will take you to Ambala Gardens.  There will be a modest fee for this service, payable to Ambala Gardens. This service is also avilable for your return trip to the airport upon your departure.

The links listed on this home page allow you to explore the facilities, room rates, and other amenities that Ambala Garden Lodge has to offer.