The hype
Travelers appreciate the quiet neighborhood and tasty on-site food but frequently complain about the small pool and nickel-and-dime charges.
Le Papillon
$40-60/ night
Book this if You want a budget-friendly base in Lonavala with a pool and solid Indian food, and you don't mind rolling the dice on maintenance.
Why People Love It
- Quiet location in Rao Colony away from the highway chaos
- Punjab Curry Grill serves surprisingly good 'bomb' Indian food
- Budget-friendly rates for rooms with balconies and bathtubs
Quick Take: A decent budget crash pad that tries hard but trips over its own hidden fees and inconsistent housekeeping.
Reviewed by @wanderwithpooja: I needed a quick break from Mumbai without spending a fortune, and this place was perfect. The premium room has this massive bathtub that felt totally luxe. Food was delicious, vibes were chill. Definitely my new go-to for a budget weekend.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'city view' often stares directly at an abandoned building or the back of another resort.
- You are a family looking for a pool and restaurant on a budget
- You want to be near the market but on a quiet street
- You love authentic North Indian food and plan to eat on-site
Cleanliness & Maintenance
6
- Housekeeping: Inconsistent. Some guests report daily cleaning, others find dust and missed spots.
- Bathroom hygiene: Major weak point. Reports of broken flushes, stained tiles, and lack of toiletries.
- Maintenance: Aging property. Peeling paint, damp walls, and broken wardrobe handles are common complaints.
- Linens & towels: Generally clean but can be worn/old. Check for stains upon arrival.
- Odors & scents: Some rooms have a lingering musty or damp smell, especially in monsoon season.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway noise from other guests
- Staff chatter near the entrance/pool area
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel is strictly non-smoking in rooms
- They charge steep fees for broken items (e.g., ₹300+ for a glass)
- Couples are welcome, but ID checks are strict
What to pack
- Your own water bottles (limited supply provided)
- Earplugs if you're a light sleeper (thin walls)
- Cash for small deposits or tips (card machine can be spotty)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Super Deluxe Room with Balcony (front facing) for natural light
- Premium Room with Bathtub if you want a soak (check the hot water first)
Rooms to avoid
- Back-facing rooms (often look at a wall or abandoned structure)
- Ground floor rooms near the reception/pool (noisy)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would like to request a Super Deluxe Room with a balcony on an upper floor, facing away from the back wall/abandoned building. Please ensure the bathroom flush and hot water are fully functional before check-in.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool actually indoor or outdoor?
It is a small outdoor pool that is covered/shaded, located near the entrance. It is not a large lap pool.
Can I order food from Zomato or Swiggy?
Technically yes, but you must pick it up at reception and pay a 'cutlery charge' of ₹100 per person to eat it in your room.
Is there parking available?
Yes, free private parking is available on-site.
Does the hotel serve alcohol?
No, the hotel does not have a bar license, but you can consume your own in the room (discreetly).
Is it pet-friendly?
No, pets are strictly not allowed.
How far is it from the main market?
It's about a 10-15 minute walk or a quick auto-rickshaw ride to the main Lonavala market.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Walk 5 minutes to 'Maval Maratha' for authentic local bhakri and pitla instead of eating at the hotel.
- ✨
Ask for a room inspection *before* you accept the key to check for smells or dampness.
- ✨
The 'Premium' room is essentially the same size as others but adds a bathtub.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'City View' is often just a view of the neighboring 'Aron Resort' or a construction site.
💡Hot water can be temperamental and may require running the tap for 5 minutes.
💡The 'Game Room' is just a carrom board and maybe a pool table that costs extra.
💡There is no lift (elevator), so be prepared to carry bags up stairs.
💡The Wi-Fi speed is surprisingly decent (250+ Mbps reported) compared to other budget hotels.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Le Papillon is located and what's nearby.