Friendship Lounge

Exact capacity figures for the Friendship Lounge depend on the seating layout and event format chosen. The space can be configured in different ways — from theatre or classroom style for structured meetings to cocktail or lounge arrangements for networking events. Prospective clients should reach out to The Ashok's banqueting team directly to confirm the maximum guest count for their preferred setup.

Yes, The Ashok provides in-house catering for events held at the Friendship Lounge, drawing on the hotel's established culinary expertise. Menus can be customised to reflect cuisine preferences, dietary requirements, and the formality of the occasion — whether that is a working lunch, a formal dinner, or a cocktail reception with canapés. The hotel's banqueting team works with clients to design a menu that fits both the event and the guest profile.

As a five-star hotel, The Ashok typically operates with its own in-house catering for events held on the property. Whether outside caterers or specific vendors are permitted should be confirmed directly with the hotel's events team, as policies may vary depending on the nature of the event.

Audio-visual support and basic event infrastructure are available through The Ashok's services team, which means organisers can run presentations, speeches, or entertainment without needing to source all external AV vendors. The specific equipment available — such as projectors, microphones, screens, or sound systems — should be confirmed with the events team when submitting a booking enquiry.

Unlike a large banquet hall designed for high-volume gatherings, the Friendship Lounge offers a more intimate and conversational atmosphere that suits events where connection and discretion matter. The space balances the formality expected of a five-star hotel with a warmer, lounge-style character, making it feel less like a conference facility and more like a curated private venue. This makes it especially appropriate for executive meetings, private dinners, and high-level receptions.

Ample parking is available within The Ashok's grounds, which is a practical advantage for guests attending events in Chanakyapuri. This on-site parking provision helps simplify logistics for event organisers, particularly for larger gatherings where multiple guests may be arriving by private vehicle. Details on parking arrangements, including valet service if applicable, should be confirmed with the hotel's events team.

The Ashok is located in Chanakyapuri, New Delhi's diplomatic enclave, which places it close to key government corridors, Lutyens' Delhi, and Connaught Place. The hotel is accessible via major road networks, and the Delhi Metro system provides connectivity from various parts of the city. Indira Gandhi International Airport can be reached via the main road network, making the property convenient for outstation and international guests.

Yes, The Ashok offers on-site accommodation across a range of rooms and suites, which means event organisers can manage end-to-end hospitality in one place for outstation guests and attendees. This is particularly useful for multi-day corporate events, destination celebrations, or gatherings where guests are travelling from other cities. Room block arrangements and group rates can be discussed with the hotel's events and reservations teams.

Enquiries about availability and pricing for the Friendship Lounge can be directed to The Ashok's banqueting and events team through the hotel's official website at itdc.co.in. Providing details such as the event date, expected guest count, preferred setup, and catering requirements will help the team put together a tailored proposal. As pricing depends on multiple variables, a formal quotation is the most reliable way to understand the full cost.

The Ashok's events team can assist with room configuration and setup to suit the tone and format of the occasion. For bespoke décor — such as floral arrangements, theming, or branded installations — planners should discuss their requirements with the hotel's banqueting team to understand what is handled in-house and what may need to be coordinated with external vendors.

The Ashok has a long-standing history of hosting diplomats, dignitaries, and distinguished guests, which is reflected in both the property's positioning in Chanakyapuri — New Delhi's diplomatic enclave — and the professional standards of its events operations. The Friendship Lounge's intimate character and the hotel's experienced staff make it a considered choice for high-profile gatherings that require discretion and polished service.

Yes, the Friendship Lounge is suited to social occasions including pre-wedding gatherings, milestone celebrations, and family functions where a professional hotel environment adds to the experience. The in-house catering, customisable setup options, and the overall ambience of a five-star property make it a practical and elegant choice for such events. Organisers are encouraged to discuss décor preferences and guest requirements with the hotel's events team when planning.

The Ashok is a large hotel property with multiple banqueting and event spaces, which means organisers can potentially book additional venues within the same property for breakout sessions, pre-function areas, or overflow gatherings. The availability of adjacent spaces and the possibility of combining them with the Friendship Lounge should be discussed directly with the hotel's banqueting team based on the specific event requirements.

Before finalising a booking, it is advisable to confirm the exact capacity for your preferred seating layout, the full range of AV and technical equipment available, catering menu options and any dietary accommodations, parking logistics, and the hotel's cancellation and deposit policy. If on-site accommodation is needed for guests, room block arrangements should also be discussed at the same time to ensure availability around the event date.