About Kitty Ko
Kitty Ko is a high-end nightclub and rooftop lounge on the sixth floor of The LaLiT Ashok hotel in central Bengaluru (Kumara Park East, Seshadripuram) . Created in 2017 by Keshav Suri (the hotel’s executive director and owner of the Kitty Su chain), Kitty Ko blends the hotel’s pan-Asian restaurant “Oko” with the Kitty Su style club experience . The “Ko” in its name comes directly from Oko; in fact the lounge’s kitchen serves Oko’s menu . In practice, Kitty Ko is known for its chic, vibrant décor and inclusive vibe – it was explicitly launched as an LGTBQ+-friendly club supporting Bangalore’s drag and queer communities . Reviews and guides describe Kitty Ko as a “swanky rooftop bar with city views and lively atmosphere,” featuring a red-lit indoor dance space and an open patio overlooking the skyline . One traveler calls it a “premier nightlife destination” with stylish ambiance and cocktails, noting especially the stunning panoramic view from the rooftop patio .
Signature elements of Kitty Ko include its skyline-setting terrace, high-end sound system, and fusion menu of Asian and bar-food fare. The club uses powerful Void Acoustics speakers to produce crisp EDM and techno sound . Its menu (catering mostly to bar crowds) features sushi, tempura and other Asian finger foods from Oko, along with bar favorites like nachos and cheese balls . The cocktail list is highlighted by “Kitty Su” signature drinks (crafted by mixologist Ravi Rai) – look for infused vodkas like elderflower or basil vodka as mentioned in opening reviews . Dress code tends to be smart-casual clubwear (no flip-flops or overly casual tees), and the crowd skews young (many under-25s) . All major nights require ID and often involve a cover charge (typically in the ₹500–1500 range, sometimes higher for big events) .
Events and Programming
Kitty Ko operates as an all-night dance club with live DJs most evenings, plus occasional themed parties. The focus is on electronic, house and techno music: concert listings show multiple EDM performances and “progressive tech” events over the years . For example, Bangalore gig archives list international acts like DJ Tinlicker (Feb 2020) and techno legend UMEK (Sept 2018) performing at Kitty Ko . Local and regional DJs from labels like Red Room BLR or Protocol Bengaluru also play regularly. Recurring club nights include “Red Room Fridays” and “Protocol Sundays” (house/EDM style parties), as well as special “Kitty Pops” summer series in 2024, which featured weekly sets by Shiva Manvi . Kitty Ko also hosts unique events: for instance, it has carved a niche with Thursday night drag shows and pride-themed parties for the city’s LGBTQ community . In short, visitors can expect a rotating lineup of DJs and performers – from international dance artists to homegrown talent – every weekend.
Typical Genres: Electronic Dance Music, House, Techno, Progressive, Trap and Pop .Notable Past Acts: International DJs like Umek, Jayda G, Grum and Barely Legal, as well as Indian producers (Praveen Achary, Greg Tomaz, etc.) .Regular Series: Weekly parties such as RedRoom Fridays and Kitty Pops. The venue is known for drag and LGBTQ nights on Thursdays .Ticket Range: Typical cover charges range from ~₹300–₹500 early evening up to ~₹1000+ on high-profile nights (often redeemable on food/drink) .
Tickets and Booking
For major events or popular DJs at Kitty Ko, it’s wise to book in advance. Tickets (or table/cover reservations) can usually be purchased through the hotel’s concierge or approved event retailers in Bangalore. Many nights use online pre-sales via platforms or the venue’s own promotion channels. Cover charges are typically applied at entry – as one recent review noted, a ₹3500 “couple cover” (redeemable at the bar) was charged on a busy Friday . Strategy-wise, arriving early in the evening can also reduce costs: some promoters waive covers before 9–10PM. Worst case, walk-up entry on the night can be attempted, but popular club events often sell out ahead of time.
Prices vary by event. Smaller or mid-week sessions may have nominal fees (or even free entry for a drink minimum), while marquee weekends with guest DJs will cost more (in the thousands of rupees per head). Advance ticket offers and mailing lists (via the Lalit’s party society or DJs) often start a few weeks out. On arrival, the club typically checks IDs (you must be 18+) and may require payment or confirmation of your booking at the door. If booking a table or bottle service, contacting The Lalit’s events desk well ahead of time is recommended.
Seating and Layout
Kitty Ko’s design splits into two main areas. There is an open-air rooftop terrace overlooking the city, furnished with high tables, cushioned lounge seats and firepits, which is perfect for sky views and conversation . Adjacent to this is an enclosed dance bar under red lighting, with a central DJ booth and spacious dance floor . In other words, guests may alternate between dancing indoors and relaxing outdoors. Sound quality is excellent throughout, thanks to professional-grade “Void” line-array speakers noted by reviewers . Special lighting and lasers complement the indoor dance vibe, while the terrace offers a more laid-back lounge atmosphere.
There are both general-admission (no assigned seating) and some reserved table areas (especially for bottle service). Best “seats” depend on your goal: for dancing, being near the indoor DJ booth is ideal; for socializing and photo ops, a terrace table by the railing has the best views. One local guide points out the club’s “red-lit interior” transitioning from chill pre-party scene into a packed dance floor after 10pm . (Inspect the venue map on arrival: restrooms and any coat-check will be opposite the bar inside.) Keep in mind that the rooftop is exposed; if attending on a monsoon or winter evening, dress accordingly or stick to the covered area.
Getting There and Parking
Address: Kitty Ko is part of The LaLiT Ashok, located on Kumara Krupa High Grounds (Kumara Park East) in Seshadripuram, central Bangalore . It’s a short walk from MG Road, just past the Ashok Pillar.
Metro: The nearest metro station is Sampige Road (Green Line), about 0.75–0.8 km away . (The Purple Line’s MG Road station is also roughly 2 km east.) Exit the metro and take an auto or ~10-minute walk to the hotel.
Bus/Auto: Multiple BMTC routes (e.g. 253E, 256MB, 282A, 285) stop nearby, as noted by transit planners . Many drop-offs occur at the Ashok Pillar or Lalit bus stop. Taxis/Ubers are plentiful in the area – you can request a drop-off at “Lalit Ashok Hotel” or Kumara Park East.
Driving/Parking: The Lalit provides an underground parking garage and valet service . Valet parking is recommended, as street parking in Seshadripuram is limited. Zomato’s listing confirms both “Parking available” and “Valet parking” for Kitty Ko . Plan for a fee (usually a few hundred rupees) if parking on-site.
Inside the Venue
Entry & Security: Prepare for a standard club entry: local ID (or passport) is checked, and patrons are frisked for security. There is a coat room/check at the entrance (usually free or with a small token fee). Guests are typically asked to keep bags small. Outside food/drinks and illicit substances are explicitly banned. Photography is permitted for personal use (phones are fine) but professional cameras and tripods are not.
Atmosphere: The mood is upscale-casual. The interior features red-and-gold decor and mood lighting; the terrace has torches and city lights. Staff are mostly from the hotel service pool – they bring a polished yet brisk approach. Be aware that popular nights draw a tight, lively crowd; it’s advisable to arrive earlier (around launch time) to avoid waits. One guide even advises to “hit it early for drinks and the rooftop view” before the late-night surge .
Food & Drink: Kitty Ko’s menu is an extension of Oko’s kitchen. Expect Asian-inspired finger foods (sushi, spring rolls, Malaysian bites, etc.) alongside bar snacks like fries and nachos . Portions are tasting-size, meant to share. Make sure to try at least one cocktail – besides the house mixologist’s creations, a popular non-alcoholic option is the “Hot Toddy” (a spiced fruit punch) . Bar prices are premium (a beer or spirits will cost around ₹500–₹600), as noted by visitors, so plan accordingly. Tip: most nights include a credit (or “co-op cover”) that offsets drinks, which effectively lowers the net entry cost if you spend at the bar. .
Other Amenities: Restrooms are located inside near the lounge area and are kept clean (as one would expect from a five-star hotel). There is free Wi-Fi in common hotel areas but it may be spotty on the rooftop – assume only mobile data will be reliable on the dance floor. The venue sells a small range of merchandise (branded glowsticks, hats) at the bar for fun. No outside lockers, so carry valuables in a secure pocket or use the coat-check.
Nearby Amenities
Because Kitty Ko is attached to The Lalit, the hotel’s facilities can serve visitors’ needs. There are fine-dining restaurants beneath it (Oko on the same floor for pan-Asian cuisines, and Rendezvous Café on the ground floor offering global buffet) . These are convenient for pre-club dinners or gatherings. In the immediate neighborhood (MG Road/Brigade Road area), there are also numerous bars, cafes and eateries, from casual pubs (like Pecos or Social – shopping district staples) to upscale spots. A couple of local picks: Ebony (Indian cuisine), Windmills Craftworks (jazz-and-beer), and church-street lounges are all within a few minutes drive.
Hotels: If booking a stay, obviously The Lalit itself is atop Kitty Ko. Other nearby hotels include Conrad Bangalore, JW Marriott (at UB City, ~1 km away), and affordable options near MG Road. Parking is the city’s biggest concern at night, so if staying overnight, use hotel valet and/or use the Lalit’s in-house airport shuttle or taxi stand.
Night Transport: After closing (around 1 AM), Bangalore’s app taxis (Ola/Uber) are plentiful on MG Road. Auto-rickshaws become scarce late, so rely on cabs or walking a block to MG Road where buses still run (Nightserv buses do operate on some routes). A safe bet is to have a taxi service pre-arranged or book a drops through your hotel’s help desk.
What Makes This Venue Special
Kitty Ko’s unique character comes from mixing upscale luxury with Bangalore’s club culture. At a time when the city had few late-night venues, Lilly Ashok introduced Kitty Ko (after his successful Kitty Su clubs in Delhi/Mumbai) to fill the gap . Its rooftop setting and sleek design make it visually striking – it’s often cited as one of the city’s most scenic party spots . Culturally, its active support for Bangalore’s LGBTQ and drag scenes sets it apart: founder Keshav Suri has openly positioned it as an inclusive space, hosting regular queer-themed nights and even featuring differently-abled DJs, which earned press coverage at its launch .
Historically, Kitty Ko put Bangalore on the map for international EDM acts. By bringing DJs like Tinlicker, UMEK, Sasha Carassi and others to this city-centric venue, Kitty Ko became a hub for progressive dance music . Local audiences love it for that cosmopolitan party vibe – one review noted that singles will “make good friends” amid the beats . Moreover, the fusion of fine dining (via Oko) with clubbing was a novel concept: you can start the night with gourmet sushi and stay dancing until dawn. All these factors – skyline views, LGBTQ-friendliness, top-tier sound and cocktails – combine to make Kitty Ko more than just another Bangalore bar. It effectively bridges global nightclub swagger with local culture, which is why both patrons and artists praise it.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Lalit complex is wheelchair-friendly. Kitty Ko’s listing explicitly notes “Wheelchair accessible” facilities . Elevators connect the lobby to the rooftop level.
What to Bring: Bring a government photo ID (any 18+ will do). Dress smart-casual (closed shoes and neat outfits are expected). It’s also wise to carry cash or cards for drinks. Leave large bags at your hotel – only small clutch bags are convenient here. Phones are allowed (for photos), but avoid bulky cameras.
Arriving on Time: The venue opens at 7:00 PM nightly . On big nights, queues can form, so consider arriving right at opening if you want to skip lines. Local advice is “hit it early for drinks and the rooftop view” before the late-night crowd overwhelms . On weekends, expect the place to fill up by 10:30 PM.
Avoid These Mistakes: Don’t walk in wearing sports shorts or slacks (the crowd dresses trendily). And don’t assume karaoke-style entry – if there is a cover charge or RSVP requested, you will need to pay or sign in. Common patron complaints include high prices; one visitor noted drinks were “too high” and that byo-cover setups feel pricey – so budget accordingly. Age is strictly 18+, so minors gain no special dispensation.
Age Restriction & Policies: Kitty Ko is strictly 18+ (some nights may be 21+). Entry IDs are checked at security. Photography for fun is fine but avoid using flash on performers. There is a no-smoking rule indoors, so smokers must use the outdoor patio (which is covered). Stag/hen parties are allowed (as Zomato notes “Stags allowed” in the policy list ), but large public drinking games or group theatrics will invite staff’s attention.
Local Lingo: Remember this is Bangalore – locals often just say “Kitty Ko” or “the Lalit club.” Raffinate (a classier way to say “prominent”). “Metro” refers to the city’s subway, and “BMTC” is the city bus system. An “auto” means auto-rickshaw. Tipping bartenders (₹50–₹100) is welcome. Know that tuk-tuks instead of cabs are common names here. Also, “parking” is the car park; “valet” means the hotel attendant.;
How much does it cost to enter Kitty Ko, and where can I buy tickets?
Entry prices vary by event. Many nights charge an entry fee (often redeemed at the bar). For example, a recent visit noted a ₹3500 cover for two (redeemable on drinks) . Tickets or table bookings can usually be obtained in advance via the Lalit hotel’s concierge or official event sellers (increasingly via online platforms). For popular DJs, buy early via promoted links or contact the venue directly. Walk-in entry is possible on less-busy nights, but reserving is recommended.
What are Kitty Ko's opening hours?
Kitty Ko is generally open nightly from 7:00 PM to 1:00 AM . It operates seven days a week in the evenings. On weekends, activity usually ramps up around 10 PM. Special events sometimes run later (closing by 2 AM on festival nights, by Mumbai standards). It’s best to arrive soon after 7 PM to catch early drinks and avoid lines.
What is the capacity and layout of Kitty Ko?
Kitty Ko holds roughly 500–1200 people at full capacity (industry sources list it as a “500 - 1.2K” club) . Layout-wise, it combines an indoor dance hall with an outdoor rooftop lounge. The indoor area is an enclosed bar/dance floor under red lights, while outside is an open terrace with seating and city views . There are general-admit standing areas and some reserved tables. For best experience: the rooftop provides great vistas; the dance floor (near the DJ) offers the full sound/party vibe .
How do I get to Kitty Ko? What transit options are nearby?
Kitty Ko is at Kumara Park East (Ashok Pillar) in central Bengaluru . The closest metro stop is Sampige Road on the Green Line (~750m away) ; alternatively, MG Road Purple Line station is about 2 km east. Many BMTC buses (e.g. 253E, 256MB, 282A, 285) serve the Lalit Ashok area . Taxis and auto-rickshaws are plentiful downtown — simply ask for Lalit Ashok. Plan a short auto from MG Road (Orion) if using the Purple Line. Otherwise, app-based cabs can drop you right in front of the hotel entrance.
Is parking available at Kitty Ko?
Yes. The Lalit Ashok provides on-site parking and valet service . Plan to use valet parking (there is a fee, usually a few hundred rupees). Street parking is tough in Seshadripuram, so valet is safest. Zomato’s details confirm parking is available (and valet is offered) for guests . If you park yourself, follow hotel signage to the underground garage.
Is Kitty Ko wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Kitty Ko (through The Lalit) is wheelchair-friendly. Official listings note it is “Wheelchair accessible” . An elevator services the rooftop floor. The venue layout has ramps and lifts, so those with mobility needs can access the club and restrooms without steps.
What is the dress code at Kitty Ko?
Kitty Ko enforces a smart-casual club dress code. Men typically wear collared shirts or neat tees and long pants; women wear dresses or stylish tops and skirts/pants. Sportswear, shorts, flip-flops or beachwear are not allowed. Since it’s a high-end lounge, dress up a bit – for example, no tank tops or sandals. Cleaning and professional attendants make no exceptions, so dress to impress in (clean) clubbing attire.
Are there food and drink options inside Kitty Ko?
Yes. Kitty Ko has an extensive bar and serves bar snacks and Asian finger foods from the Oko kitchen . You can order cocktails, beer, wine and premium spirits. The food menu is mostly starters – think sushi, tempura, spring rolls, pork belly – plus pub favorites (nachos, fries) . It’s meant to be eaten in smaller portions. Do note prices are premium. For a quick tip, Corner lists a non-alcoholic “Hot Toddy” punch as a recommended option for pacing your night .
Is there a coat check and restroom?
Yes. There is a coat-check area near the entrance. Restrooms (men’s and women’s) are inside the club adjacent to the bar/lounge. Being part of a luxury hotel, these are well-maintained. One tip: lines can form, so use them early or in lull times. Also note: smoking is only allowed on the outdoor patio, not in the indoor nightclub.
Can I bring friends inside with me?
Yes, as long as everyone meets the entry requirements. All guests (including friends) must pay the cover or have a valid ticket/booking. Everyone needs to show valid ID at the door (18+). Stag or hen parties are allowed (as noted, “Stags allowed” on the venue info ), so you can enter as a group. However, only those who've paid or been registered under your reservation can sit at reserved tables. Empty seats are first-come if you just walk in.
What type of music and performances are at Kitty Ko?
Kitty Ko specializes in electronic dance music. You’ll hear house, techno, progressive, trap and some pop/EDM remixes. The club frequently hosts guest DJs and producers. For example, its concert archive lists acts like Tinlicker and UMEK playing there . Regular events showcase local and international DJs (see “Red Room Fridays” or “Kitty Pops” series). Occasionally there are live performances (e.g. electronic artists or drag shows). In short, expect high-energy dance beats with lighting effects on the dance floor .
Is Kitty Ko family- or kid-friendly?
No. Kitty Ko is a late-night club aimed at adults. Minors (under 18) are not permitted after evening hours. The atmosphere is party-oriented with loud music and alcohol, so it is not suitable for children or family dining. Attire and content (some performances or crowd behavior) are geared to the club scene. It’s best visited by adults only.
Who tends to go to Kitty Ko?
Kitty Ko attracts a young, professional crowd – mostly 20- and 30-somethings. A review notes it’s “popular among the under-23 crowd” on party nights. Expect a mix of Bangalore IT/corporate folks, expats and students. The inclusive vibe also brings LGBTQ+ patrons, and many foreigners visit for the EDM. On a Wednesday or Thursday, it may be more mixed local clientele; Friday–Saturday is peak local nightlife crowd. In all cases, it’s an adult crowd looking to dance and socialize.
What happens if I arrive late or need to leave early?
Gates stay open until about midnight or 1 AM, so late arrival is fine, but you might miss headliners. If you leave and want to re-enter later, check the policy: often re-entry isn’t allowed without buying a new ticket (however, if you have a stamped hand or a printed “re-entry allowed” card, it may be permitted). For safety, it’s normal to leave quietly through the exit doors; staff usually let guests exit anytime. If you have a table reservation, alert staff before leaving so they don’t resell it.
What are common mistakes to avoid at Kitty Ko?
Key tips: Arrive early to pay a smaller cover and enjoy the view before it gets packed . Carry valid ID to avoid hassle. Don’t wear flip-flops or sports attire (dress codes are enforced). Plan for higher-than-usual bar prices – one reviewer advises budgeting extra since drinks can be costly . Finally, keep personal items secure (the club gets busy). In short: dress smart, bring ID, and arrive on time to make the most of your night.
