Segment Reporting [Abstract] Reportable segments financial data Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Total segments to partnership income before provision for taxes reconciliation Schedule Of Income Before Income Tax Table [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure that reconciles certain total segment information to consolidated income before taxes. Expenses adjustment representing elimination of intercompany expenses Expenses Adjustment Represents Elimination Of Intercompany Expenses Table [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the detail for the expenses adjustment in the reconciliation of total segment information to consolidated information. Reconciliation of income before provision for income taxes Reconciliation Of Income Before Provision For Income Taxes [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the reconciliation of income before taxes to economic net income, fee related earnings and distributable earnings. Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Summary of partnership's assets and liabilities measured at fair value on recurring basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Changes in financial assets measured at fair value for which the Partnership has used Level III inputs Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Changes in financial liabilities measured at fair value for which the Partnership has used Level III inputs Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Summary of quantitative information about Partnership's Level III inputs Schedule Of Quantitative Information About Partnership Level Three Inputs Table [Table Text Block] Schedule of quantitative information about partnership level three inputs. Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract] Supplemental financial Position Additional Financial Position Table [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of supplemental financial position information that illustrates the consolidating effects of the consolidated funds. Supplemental results of operations Supplemental Results Of Operations Table [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of supplemental results of operations information that illustrates the consolidating effects of the consolidated funds. Supplemental statement of cash flows Schedule Of Cash Flow Supplemental [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of supplemental cash flow information that illustrates the consolidating effects of the consolidated funds. Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level III Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Equity securities Equity Securities [Member] Bonds Bond Option [Member] Loans Loans Investment In Consolidated Funds [Member] Loans investment in consolidated funds. Partnership and LLC interests Partnerships And Llc Interests [Member] Partnership and LLC interests. Other Other Assets [Member] Investments of Consolidated Funds Investments Of Consolidated Funds [Member] Investments of consolidated funds. Trading securities Trading Securities And Other [Member] Trading securities and other. Restricted securities of Consolidated Funds Restricted Securities Of Consolidated Funds [Member] Restricted securities of consolidated funds. Investments in CLOs and other Investments In CLO's And Other [Member] Investments In CLO's And Other [Member] Subordinated notes, preferred shares and other Subordinated Notes And Preferred Shares [Member] Subordinated Notes and Preferred Shares [Member] Liability Class [Axis] Liability Class [Axis] Fair Value by Liability Class [Domain] Fair Value by Liability Class [Domain] Senior secured notes Senior Secured Notes [Member] Senior secured notes. Subordinated notes and preferred shares Subordinated Debt Obligations [Member] Derivative Instruments of Consolidated Funds Derivative Instruments Of Consolidated Funds [Member] Derivative instruments of consolidated funds. Combination notes Combination Notes [Member] Combination notes. Loans Payable of a consolidated real estate VIE Loans Payable Of Consolidated Real Estate Vie [Member] Loans payable of consolidated real estate VIE. Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities [Member] Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities [Member] Contingent consideration Contingent Consideration [Member] Contingent consideration. Valuation Technique [Axis] Valuation Technique [Axis] Valuation Technique [Domain] Valuation Technique [Domain] Discounted Cash Flow Discounted Cash Flow [Member] Discounted cash flow. Consensus Pricing Consensus Pricing [Member] Consensus pricing. Counterparty Pricing Counterparty Pricing [Member] Counterparty pricing. Discounted Cash Flow with Consensus Pricing Discounted Cash Flow With Consensus Pricing [Member] Discounted cash flow with consensus pricing. Comparable Multiple Comparable Multiple One [Member] Comparable multiple one. Other Other Valuation Technique [Member] Other Valuation Technique [Member] Market Yield Market Yield Analysis [Member] Market yield analysis. Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Weighted Average Weighted Average [Member] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair value of assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Fair value of liabilities Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Valuation technique of assets Fair Value Measurements Valuation Technique Of Assets Fair value measurements valuation technique of assets. Valuation technique of liabilities Fair Value Measurements Valuation Technique Of Liabilities Fair value measurements valuation technique of liabilities. Discount Rates (as a percent) Discount Rate Range Percentage Discount rate range percentage. Exit Cap Rate (as a percent) Exit Cap Rate Valuation Technique Exit Cap Rate Valuation Technique Indicative Quotes ($ per share) Indicative Quotes Per Share Range Indicative quotes per share range. Indicative Quotes (% of Par) Indicative Quotes Range Percentage Indicative quotes range percentage. Indicative Quotes (% of Notional Amount) Percentage Of Indicative Quotes Range Notional Amount Percentage of indicative quotes range notional amount. Default Rates (as a percent) Default Rates Range Percentage Default rates range percentage. Recovery Rates (as a percent) Recovery Rates Range Percentage Recovery rates range percentage. LTM EBITDA Multiple Ltm Ebitda Multiple Range Ltm Ebitda Multiple Range Discount to Expected Payment (as a percent) Fair Value Inputs Discount To Expected Payment Fair value inputs discount to expected payment. Assumed % of Total Potential Contingent Payments Assumed Range Percentage Of Potential Contingent Payments Assumed range percentage of potential contingent payments. Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Unvested Partnership Common Units Unvested Partnership Common Units [Member] Unvested partnership common units. Unvested Carlyle Holdings Partnership Units Unvested Carlyle Holdings Partnership Units [Member] Unvested Carlyle Holdings partnership units. Deferred Restricted Common Units Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Phantom Units Phantom Share Units (PSUs) [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] AlpInvest Alpinvest [Member] AlpInvest. Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Carlyle Holdings Carlyle Holdings [Member] Carlyle Holdings. ECM Capital, L.P. Ecm Capital Lp [Member] ECM Capital LP. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Number of the Partnership's common units and Carlyle Holdings partnership units available for grant under the Equity Incentive Plan (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Additional ownership percentage acquired (percent) Additional Ownership Percentage Acquired The additional ownership percentage acquired. Common units issued to AlpInvest employees that are subject to vesting conditions (in shares) Common Units Issued To Sellers Subject To Vesting Conditions Number of partnership common units subject to vesting conditions that were issued to the sellers. Amount of unvested common units forfeited by an individual (in shares) Amount In Units Forfeited By Individual Amount represents the amount in units that were forfeited by an individual during the period. Period of vesting of unvested units (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Forfeiture rate (as a percent) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Revised Forfeiture Rate Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award equity instruments other than options revised forfeiture rate. Allocated share based compensation expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Unrecognized equity-based compensation expense Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Weighted-average term for unrecognized compensation expense to be recognized (in years) Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Tax benefits related to equity-based compensation expense Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Number of partnership units issued with time vesting (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Shares Issued in Period Number of partnership units issued at closing with performance-based vesting (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Other Share Increase (Decrease) Forfeiture rate (as a percent) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Forfeiture Rate Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award equity instruments other than options forfeiture rate. Unit discount (as a percent) Discount On Unvested Awards Discount on unvested awards. Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows from operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Equity-based compensation Share-based Compensation Excess tax benefits related to equity-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities Non-cash performance fees Non Cash Performance Fees Non-cash performance fees. Other non-cash amounts Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Consolidated Funds related: Consolidated Funds Related [Abstract] Consolidated funds related. Realized/unrealized gain on investments of Consolidated Funds Realized Unrealized Gain (Loss) On Investments Of Consolidated Funds Realized unrealized gain (loss) on investments of consolidated funds. Realized/unrealized loss from loans payable of Consolidated Funds Realized Unrealized Gain (Loss) From Loans Payable Of Consolidated Funds Realized unrealized gain (loss) from loans payable of consolidated funds. Purchases of investments by Consolidated Funds Purchases Of Investments By Consolidated Funds Purchases of investments by consolidated funds. Proceeds from sale and settlements of investments by Consolidated Funds Proceeds From Sale And Settlements Of Investments By Consolidated Funds Proceeds from sale and settlements of investments by consolidated funds. Non-cash interest income, net Non Cash Interest Income Net Non-cash interest income, net. Change in cash and cash equivalents held at Consolidated Funds Increase (Decrease) In Cash And Cash Equivalents Held At Consolidated Funds Change in other receivables held at consolidated funds. Change in other receivables held at Consolidated Funds Increase (Decrease) Other Receivables Held At Consolidated Funds Change in other receivables held at consolidated funds. Change in other liabilities held at Consolidated Funds Increase (Decrease) Other Liabilities Held At Consolidated Funds Change in other liabilities held at consolidated funds. Investment income Other Noncash Income Purchases of investments Payments to Acquire Investments Proceeds from the sale of investments and trading securities Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Other Investments Payments of contingent consideration Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration, Asset Changes in deferred taxes, net Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Income Taxes Change in due from affiliates and other receivables Increase (Decrease) in Due from Related Parties, Current Change in receivables and inventory of a consolidated real estate VIE Increase (Decrease) In Consolidated Real Estate Variable Interest Entity Receivables And Inventory Increase decrease in consolidated real estate variable interest entity receivables and inventory. Change in deposits and other Increase (Decrease) in Deposit Assets Change in other assets of a consolidated real estate VIE Increase (Decrease) In Consolidated Real Estate Variable Interest Entity Other Assets The increase (decrease) in consolidated real estate variable interest entity other assets during the reporting period. Change in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Change in accrued compensation and benefits Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Salaries Change in due to affiliates Increase (Decrease) in Due to Related Parties, Current Change in other liabilities of a consolidated real estate VIE Increase (Decrease) In Consolidated Real Estate Variable Interest Entity Other Liabilities Increase (decrease) in consolidated real estate variable interest entity other liabilities. Change in deferred revenue Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Cash flows from investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Change in restricted cash Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Purchases of fixed assets, net Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Cash flows from financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Proceeds from debt obligations Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Net payments on loans payable of a consolidated real estate VIE Increase (Decrease) In Consolidated Real Estate Variable Interest Entity Loans Payable Increase (decrease) in consolidated real estate variable interest entity loans payable. Net borrowings on loans payable of Consolidated Funds Proceeds from (Repayments Of) Loans Payable Of Consolidated Funds Net payments on loans payable of consolidated funds. Payments of contingent consideration Payment Of Contingent Consideration Payment of contingent consideration. Excess tax benefits related to equity-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Distributions to common unitholders Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Distributions to non-controlling interest holders in Carlyle Holdings Distributions To Noncontrolling Interest Holders Subsidiary Distributions to noncontrolling interest holders in Carlyle Holdings. Net proceeds from issuance of common units, net of offering costs Proceeds from Issuance of Common Limited Partners Units Acquisition of non-controlling interests in Carlyle Holdings Payments to Acquire Businesses and Interest in Affiliates Contributions from non-controlling interest holders Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Distributions to non-controlling interest holders Distributions To Noncontrolling Interest Holders Distributions to noncontrolling interest holders. Units repurchased Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Change in due to/from affiliates financing activities Change In Due To (From) Affiliates Financing Activities Change in due to/from affiliates financing activities. Change in due to/from affiliates and other receivables of Consolidated Funds Change In Due To (From) Affiliates And Other Receivables Of Consolidated Funds Change in due to/from affiliates and other receivables of consolidated funds. Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Effect of foreign exchange rate changes Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Decrease in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Supplemental non-cash disclosures Supplemental Noncash Transactions [Abstract] Supplemental noncash transactions. Net increase in partners’ capital and accumulated other comprehensive income related to reallocation of ownership interest in Carlyle Holdings Change In Parents Ownership Interest Change in parents ownership interest. Initial consolidation of Consolidated Funds Non Cash Initial Consolidation Of Consolidated Funds Non cash initial consolidation of consolidated funds. Net asset impact of deconsolidation of Consolidated Funds Deconsolidation Of Consolidated Funds Amount represents amount of non-cash item on statement of cash flow related to the deconsolidation of consolidated funds during the period. Deferred tax asset Deferred Tax Asset, Partnership Unit Acquisition Deferred tax asset related to acquisition of partnership units. Deferred tax liability Deferred Tax Liability, Partnership Unit Acquisition Deferred tax liability related to acquisition of partnership units. Tax receivable agreement liability Tax Receivable Agreement Liability Tax receivable agreement liability. Total partners’ capital Partners Capital Related To Exchange Of Equity Interests Partners capital related to exchange of equity interests. Supplemental Financial Information Additional Financial Information Disclosure [Text Block] Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Schedule of Investments [Table] Schedule of Investments [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating Segments Operating Segments [Member] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Corporate Private Equity Corporate Private Equity [Member] Corporate private equity. Global Market Strategies Global Market Strategies [Member] Global market strategies. Real Assets Real Assets [Member] Real assets. Investment Solutions Solutions [Member] Solutions. Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Income (loss) from equity-method investments Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Investment Issuer [Axis] Investment Issuer [Axis] Investment Issuer [Domain] Investment Issuer [Domain] Partnership Partnership [Member] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] Receivables and inventory of a consolidated real estate VIE: Receivable And Inventory Of Consolidated Real Estate Vie [Abstract] Receivable and inventory of consolidated real estate Vie. Customer and other receivables Customer And Other Receivables Customer and other receivables. Inventory costs in excess of billings and advances Inventory Costs In Excess Of Billings And Advances Inventory costs in excess of billings and advances. Receivables and inventory of a consolidated real estate VIE Receivables Inventory Of Consolidated Real Estate Vie The total amount of receivables and inventory for a consolidated real estate VIE. Other assets of a consolidated real estate VIE: Other Assets Of Consolidated Real Estate Vie [Abstract] Other assets of consolidated real estate VIE. Restricted investments Restricted Investments Of Consolidated Real Estate Vie Restricted investments related to consolidated real estate VIE. Fixed assets, net Assets Noncurrent Of Consolidated Real Estate Vie Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are expected to be realized in cash, sold or consumed after one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer, related to consolidated real estate VIE. Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Asset Consolidated Real Estate Vie Amount of deferred tax assets related to a consolidated real estate VIE. Other assets Other Miscellaneous Assets Of Consolidated Real Estate Vie The aggregate carrying amounts, as of the balance sheet date, of assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet related to consolidated real estate VIEs. Other assets of a consolidated real estate VIE Other Assets Of Consolidated Real Estate Vie The total amount of other assets of a consolidated real estate VIE. Loans payable of a consolidated real estate VIE, at fair value (principal amount of $136.1 million and $125.6 million as of June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively) Loans Payable Of Consolidated Real Estate Vie Including the current and noncurrent portions, aggregate carrying value as of the balance sheet date of loans payable (with maturities initially due after one year or beyond the operating cycle if longer), related to consolidated real estate VIE. Other liabilities of a consolidated real estate VIE: Other Liabilities Of Consolidated Real Estate Vie [Abstract] Other liabilities related to consolidated real estate VIE. Accounts payable Accounts Payable Current Of Consolidated Real Estate Vie Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of liabilities incurred (and for which invoices have typically been received) and payable to vendors for goods and services received that are used in an entity's business. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer), related to consolidated real estate VIE. Other liabilities Other Liabilities Current Of Consolidated Real Estate Variable Interest Entities Aggregate carrying amount of current liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer) not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Includes costs that are statutory in nature, are incurred on contractual obligations, or accumulate over time and for which invoices have not yet been received or will not be rendered and of liabilities not separately disclosed, related to consolidated real estate VIE. Other liabilities of a consolidated real estate VIE Other Liabilities Related To Consolidated Real Estate Vie The total amount as of the balance sheet date, of liabilities not separately disclosed in the balance sheet, related to consolidated real estate VIE. Principal amount Debt Instrument Face Amount Consolidated Real Estate Vie Face (par) amount of debt instrument for consolidated real estate VIE. Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Earnings Per Common Unit Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Balance at beginning of period Goodwill Foreign currency translation Goodwill, Translation Adjustments Balance at end of period Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Borrowings Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] Accrued Compensation and Benefits Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans, Other than Share-based Compensation [Text Block] Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Non-Carlyle interests in Consolidated Funds Non Carlyle Interests In Consolidated Funds [Member] Non-Carlyle interests in consolidated funds. Non-Carlyle interests in majority-owned subsidiaries Non Carlyle Majority Owned Subsidiaries [Member] Non-Carlyle majority owned subsidiaries. Non-controlling interest in carried interest, giveback obligations and cash held for carried interest distributions Carried Interest And Cash Held For Carried Interest Distributions [Member] Carried interest and cash held for carried interest distributions. Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Net income (loss) attributable to other non-controlling interests in consolidated entities Noncontrolling Interest in Net Income (Loss) Other Noncontrolling Interests, Nonredeemable Net loss attributable to partners’ capital appropriated for CLOs Net Income Loss Attributable To Equity Appropriated For Collateralized Loan Obligations Net income loss attributable to equity appropriated for collateralized loan obligations. Net loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated entities Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest Non-controlling interests in income (loss) of consolidated entities Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Assets and liabilities recognized in the Partnership’s condensed consolidated balance sheets Condensed Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Revenues and expenses recognized in the Partnership’s condensed consolidated statements of operations Condensed Income Statement [Table Text Block] Outstanding principal amounts on loans based on current contractual terms Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Unfunded Commitments Unfunded Commitment Unfunded commitment as of the reporting date. Summary of basic and diluted net income per common unit Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Summary of weighted-average common units outstanding, basic and diluted Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares [Table Text Block] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Level I Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level II Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Bonds Bonds [Member] Hedge funds Hedge Funds [Member] Other Other Investments Of Consolidated Funds [Member] Other investments of consolidated funds. Investments in CLOs and other Bonds Corporate Bond Securities [Member] Commercial paper and other Commercial Paper and Other [Member] Commercial Paper and Other [Member] Corporate treasury investments Corporate Treasury Investments [Member] Corporate Treasury Investments [Member] Foreign currency forward contracts Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Assets Financial Instruments, Financial Assets, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract] Investments of Consolidated Funds Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract] Loans payable of Consolidated Funds Loans Payable, Fair Value Disclosure Derivative instruments of the CLOs Derivative Instruments Of Subsidiary Derivative instruments of subsidiary. Contingent consideration Fair Value Contingent Consideration Fair value contingent consideration. Loans payable of a consolidated real estate VIE Loans Payable Of Consolidated Real Estate Vie At Fair Value The total amount of loans payable for a consolidated real estate VIE recorded at fair value. Interest rate swaps Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value Foreign currency forward contracts Foreign Currency Forward Contracts Measured At Fair Value Recurring Basis Amount represents the amount of foreign currency forward contracts measured at fair value on a recurring basis for the period Total Liabilities Schedule of unfunded commitments Unfunded Commitments [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of unfunded commitments by reportable segment. Future minimum commitments for leases Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statement [Table] Consolidated Entities and Consolidated Funds Reportable Legal Entities [Member] Eliminations Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Consolidated Operating Entities Consolidated Operating Entities [Member] Consolidated operating entities. Consolidated Funds Consolidated Funds [Member] Consolidated funds. Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Revenues Revenues [Abstract] Fund management fees Investment Advisory Fees Performance fees Fees and Commissions [Abstract] Realized Performance Fees Realized Fees received from a carry fund that had a distribution event. Unrealized Performance Fees Unrealized Gain (Loss) Fees earned from a carry fund that the Partnership would be eligible to receive upon a hypothetical liquidation of the fund at fair value Total performance fees Performance Fees Investment income (loss) Investment Income [Abstract] Investment income (loss). Realized Realized Investment Income Loss Investment income (loss) realized represents the gains and losses on the partnership's principal investments, including its investments in funds that are not consolidated, its equity method investments, and other principal investments. Investment income (loss) is realized when the partnership redeems all or a portion of its investment or when the partnership receives cash income, such as dividends or distributions, from its non consolidated funds. Unrealized Unrealized Investment Income (Loss) Investment income (loss) unrealized represents the unrealized gains and losses on the partnership's principal investments, including its investments in funds that are not consolidated, its equity method investments, and other principal investments. Unrealized investment income (loss) results from changes in the fair value of the underlying investment as well as the reversal of unrealized gain (loss) at the time an investment is realized. Total investment income Gain (Loss) on Investments Interest and other income Interest and Dividend Income, Operating Interest and other income of Consolidated Funds Interest And Other Income Of Consolidated Funds Represents the total of interest and dividend income, including any amortization and accretion (as applicable) of discounts and premiums, earned from (1) loans and leases whether held-for-sale or held-in-portfolio; (2) investment securities; (3) federal funds sold; (4) securities purchased under agreements to resell; (5) investments in banker's acceptances, commercial paper, or certificates of deposit; (6) dividend income; or (7) other investments not otherwise specified herein held by consolidated funds and other consolidated entities. Revenue of a consolidated real estate VIE Revenues Of Consolidated Vies Revenues of consolidated VIEs. Total revenues Revenues Expenses Operating And Non Operating Expenses [Abstract] Expenses. Compensation and benefits Employee Benefits and Share-based Compensation [Abstract] Base compensation Compensation Performance fee related Performance Fee Related [Abstract] Performance fee compensation. Realized Performance Fee Realized Compensation of our investment professionals related to realized performance fees. Unrealized Performance Fee Unrealized Compensation of our investment professionals related to unrealized performance fees. Total compensation and benefits Labor and Related Expense General, administrative and other expenses General and Administrative Expense Interest Interest Expense Interest and other expenses of Consolidated Funds Interest And Other Expenses Of Consolidated Funds Interest and other expenses relating to and incurred by the consolidated funds and other consolidated entities. Interest and other expenses of a consolidated real estate VIE Interest And Other Expense Of Consolidated Vie Interest and other expense of consolidated VIE. Other non-operating expense (income) Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Total expenses Costs and Expenses Other income Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Net investment gains (losses) of Consolidated Funds Net Investment Gains Losses Of Consolidated Funds Net gains (losses) from consolidated funds and other consolidated entities' investment activities. Income before provision for income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Benefit for income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income Net loss attributable to non-controlling interests in consolidated entities Net income attributable to Carlyle Holdings Net Income Loss In Subsidiary Net income loss in subsidiary. Net loss attributable to non-controlling interests in Carlyle Holdings Net Income Loss Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest In Subsidiary Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest in subsidiary. Net income attributable to The Carlyle Group L.P. Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Accrued performance fee-related compensation Accrued Performance Fees Due To Employees And Advisors Included In Accrued Compensation Accrued performance fees due to employees and advisors included in accrued compensation. Accrued bonuses Accrued Bonuses Employment-based contingent cash consideration Employment Based Contingent Cash Consideration Carrying value of employment-based contingent cash consideration. Other Other Employee Related Liabilities Total Employee-related Liabilities Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Senior Credit Facility Term Loan Due 5/05/2020 Term Loan [Member] Term loan. Revolving Credit Facility New Senior Credit Facility [Member] New senior credit facility. New Term Loan New Term Loan [Member] New term loan. CLO 2016-2 Retention Term Loan CLO 2016-2 Retention Term Loan [Member] CLO 2016-2 Retention Term Loan [Member] Promissory Note Due 1/01/2022 Promissory Notes [Member] Promissory Notes [Member] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] 3.875% Senior Notes Due 2/01/2023 Senior Notes [Member] 5.625% Senior Notes Due 3/30/2043 Senior Notes One [Member] Information by type of debt instrument, including, but not limited to, draws against credit facilities. Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] Treasury Rate Treasury Rate [Member] Treasury Rate [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Maximum borrowing capacity in term loan Debt Instrument Maximum Borrowing Capacity Debt instrument maximum borrowing capacity. Borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Loan maturity date Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Maximum percentage of applicable margin in addition to base rate Maximum Percentage Of Applicable Margin In Addition To Base Rate Maximum percentage of applicable margin in addition to base rate. Maximum percentage of applicable margin Maximum Percentage Of Applicable Margin Maximum percentage of applicable margin. Actual percentage at period end Actual Percentage Actual interest rate percentage of credit facility at period end. Maximum borrowing Debt Instrument Outstanding Amount borrowed under debt instruments as of the balance sheet date. Interest rate spread on term loan to fund investment in a CLO (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Actual percentage at period end for term loan that funded investment in CLO Actual Interest Rate Term Loan For Clo Actual interest rate at period end for term loan that funded investment in a CLO. Maturity period Maturity Period Of Debt Instruments Maturity period of debt instruments. Senior notes principal amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Interest rate on senior notes (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Senior notes percentage of par value Debt Instrument Percent To Par Value Debt instrument percent to par value. Date of first required interest payment Debt Instrument, Date of First Required Payment Senior notes redemption terms percentage to principal amount Senior Notes Option To Redeem Price Equal To Percentage Of Principal Senior notes option to redeem price equal to percentage of principal. Interest expense Fair value of notes payable Notes Payable, Fair Value Disclosure Amount of promissory note for strategic investment contingent consideration Amount Of Promissory Note For Strategic Investment Contingent Consideration Amount represents the portion payable in a promissory note of a contingent consideration to one company as part of our strategic investment in another company Basis spread of variable rate promissory note (as a percent) Promissory Note Basis Spread On Variable Rate Note Percentage of basis spread on promissory note Fair value of collateralized loan obligation assets Fair Value Of Collateralized Loan Obligation Assets Fair value of collateralized loan obligation assets. Accounting Policies [Abstract] Principles of Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Investments in Unconsolidated Variable Interest Entities Investment In Unconsolidated Variable Interest Entities Policy [Policy Text Block] Investment In Unconsolidated Variable Interest Entities Policy [Policy Text Block] Basis of Accounting Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Business Combinations Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Compensation and Benefits Compensation Related Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Tax Receivable Agreement Tax Receivable Agreement Policy [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for exchanges of Carlyle Holdings partnership units for partnership common units. Non-controlling Interests Non Controlling Interests In Consolidated Entities Policy [Policy Text Block] Non Controlling Interests In Consolidated Entities Policy [Policy Text Block] Earnings Per Common Unit Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Investments Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Equity-Method Investments Equity Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents Held at Consolidated Funds Cash And Cash Equivalents Held At Consolidated Funds Policy [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for cash and cash equivalents held at consolidated funds and includes a statement that these cash and cash equivalents are not available to fund the general liquidity needs of the partnership. Restricted Cash Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Restricted Cash and Securities of Consolidated Funds Restricted Cash And Securities Of Consolidated Funds Policy [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for restricted cash and securities of consolidated funds and includes a description of the types of cash and securities. Derivative Instruments Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fixed Assets Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Intangible Assets and Goodwill Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Deferred Revenue Revenue Recognition, Deferred Revenue [Policy Text Block] Comprehensive Income (Loss) Comprehensive Income, Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Translation Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Recent Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value Measurement Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Schedule of Partnership's borrowings Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Summary of borrowings outstanding, including preferred shares classified as liabilities Schedule Of Debt Table For Consolidated Funds [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of information pertaining to short-term and long-debt instruments or arrangements, including but not limited to identification of terms, features, collateral requirements and other information necessary to a fair presentation for our consolidated funds. Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions by Acquisition, Contingent Consideration [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions by Acquisition, Contingent Consideration [Table] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Options To Acquire Additional Investments Options To Acquire Additional Investments [Member] Options to acquire additional investments. Performance-based Performance Based [Member] Performance based. Shareholders' Equity Class [Axis] Shareholders' Equity Class [Axis] Fair Value by Shareholders' Equity Class [Domain] Fair Value by Shareholders' Equity Class [Domain] Contingent cash consideration Contingent Cash Consideration [Member] Contingent cash consideration. Business Acquisition, Contingent Consideration [Line Items] Business Acquisition, Contingent Consideration [Line Items] Total maximum cash obligations Business Acquisition Contingent Consideration Potential Cash Payments Business acquisition contingent consideration potential cash payments. Liability recognized on financial statements Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Contingent Liability Amount of the maximum contingent cash obligations associated with business acquisitions that are unlikely to be paid Business Acquisition Contingent Consideration Maximum Potential Cash Payment Expected To Be Unpaid” Amount of the maximum contingent cash obligations associated with business acquisitions that are unlikely to be paid Intangible Assets and Goodwill Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Deferred Costs [Abstract] Components of accrued performance fees Components Of Accrued Performance Fees [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the components of accrued performance fees by reportable segment. Components of accrued giveback obligations Accrued Giveback Obligations [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the components of accrued giveback obligations by reportable segment. Performance fees included in revenues Performance Fees [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the components of performance fee revenues by reportable segment. Revenue of a consolidated real estate VIE Real Estate Revenue, Net [Abstract] Land development services Land Development Services Land development services. Investment income Investment Income Of Consolidated Vies Investment income of consolidated vies. Revenue of a consolidated real estate VIE Interest and other expenses of a consolidated real estate VIE: Interest And Other Expenses Of Consolidated Real Estate Vei [Abstract] Interest and other expenses of consolidated real estate vei. Costs of products sold and services rendered Cost of Goods and Services Sold Interest expense Interest Expense Of Consolidated Vies Interest expense of consolidated vies. Change in fair value of loans payable Change In Fair Value Of Loans Payable Of Consolidated Vies Change in fair value of loans payable of consolidated vies. Compensation and benefits Compensation And Benefits Amount of compensation and benefits related to a consolidated real estate VIE. G&A and other expenses General Administrative And Other Expenses General administrative and other expenses. Interest and other expenses of a consolidated real estate VIE Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document and entity information. Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Distribution per common unit (usd per share) Dividends Payable, Amount Per Share Dividends payable, date of record Dividends Payable, Date of Record Dividends payable, date to be paid Dividends Payable, Date to be Paid Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Partner Type [Axis] Partner Type [Axis] Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain] Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain] Management fee-related revenues Management Fee Related Revenues [Member] Management fee related revenues. Limited Partners' Capital Account by Class [Axis] Limited Partners' Capital Account by Class [Axis] Limited Partners' Capital Account, Class [Domain] Limited Partners' Capital Account, Class [Domain] Barclays Natural Resource Investments Barclays Natural Resource Investments [Member] Barclays natural resource investments. Corporate mezzanine securities and bonds Corporate Mezzanine Securities Bonds And Warrants [Member] Corporate mezzanine securities, bonds and warrants. Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Percentage of management fee revenue allocated to Carlyle Percentage Of Income Allocated Under Partnership Investment Percentage of income allocated under partnership investment. Percentage of carried interest income to be allocated to Partnership for future interests in future carry funds Percentage Of Carried Interest Income Allocated To Partnership For Future Carry Funds Percentage of carried interest income to be allocated to partnership for future interests in future carry funds. Number of years until Carlyle can purchase the remaining interests in NGP Management Period For Option To Purchase Additional Interests Period for option to purchase additional interests. Percentage of carried interest to be received if certain options to purchase additional interests are made Percentage Of Carried Interest To Be Received Upon Additional Purchased Interests Percentage of carried interest to be received upon the purchase of additional interests in the future. Carrying value of carried interest Carrying Value For Carried Interest Amount represents the carrying value of investment in general partner attributable to carried interest allocation Carrying value of general partner investments in NGP X Carrying Value For General Partner Investments Amount represents the carrying value of general partner investments in fund Purchase price Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Issuance of partnership units (in shares) Issuance Of Partnership Units Issuance of partnership units. Partnership vested period (in years) Partnership Vested Period Partnership vested period. Contingent consideration Contingent Purchase Price Consideration Contingent purchase price consideration. Value of additional partnership units to be issued upon the satisfaction of certain performance conditions Value Of Additional Partnership Units To Be Issued Value of additional partnership units to be issued upon the satisfaction of certain performance conditions. Amount of cash for strategic investment contingent consideration Amount Of Cash For Strategic Investment Contingent Consideration Amount represents the portion payable in cash of a contingent consideration to BNRI as part of our strategic investment in NGP Length of term in years of promissory note to Barclays (in years) Term Length Promissory Note Length of term in years of promissory note Partnership's basis difference based on underlying net assets Basis Difference Amount of the partnership's basis difference in the underlying net assets of NGP. Basis difference amortization period (in years) Amortization Period Of Basis Difference Amortization period of Partnership's basis difference in the underlying net assets of NGP. Investments in CLOs and other Trading Securities, Other Number of new CLOs formed Number Of Collateralized Loan Obligations Number of collateralized loan obligations. Total assets of the CLOs that were formed during the year Assets Of Clos Assets of the CLOs that were formed during the year. Minimum percent of aggregate assets for individual investments with fair value Minimum Percent Of Aggregate Assets For Individual Investments With Fair Value Minimum percent of aggregate assets for individual investments with fair value. Acquired contractual rights Finite-Lived Contractual Rights, Gross Acquired trademarks Finite-Lived Trademarks, Gross Accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Finite-lived intangible assets, net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Goodwill Intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Including Goodwill) Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table] Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table] Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Axis] Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Axis] Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Domain] Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Domain] Guaranteed Loans Guaranteed Loans [Member] Guaranteed loans. Contingent Obligations (Giveback) Contingent Obligations Giveback [Member] Contingent obligations giveback. CEREP I CEREP I [Member] CEREP I Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] Unfunded commitments Unfunded commitment subscribed individually by senior Carlyle professionals, operating executives and other professionals Unfunded Commitment To Be Paid By Senior Executives And Professionals Unfunded commitment to be paid by senior executives and professionals. Aggregate annual incremental borrowings Proceeds from Lines of Credit Variable interest rate under credit facility Debt Instrument, Description of Variable Rate Basis Margin interest rate (as a percent) Weighted-average rate under credit facility (as a percent) Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End Outstanding borrowings under credit facility Long-term Line of Credit Liability for potential repayment of previously received performance fees Accrued Giveback Obligations Amount of realized performance fees, if the fund were liquidated at the reporting date fair value, that would be given back to the fund investors at the end of the fund's life if the fund fair value does not recover sufficiently to pass through the hurdle rate that allows for the recognition of performance fees. Unbilled receivable for giveback obligations from current and former employees Unbilled Receivables, Not Billable Cash withheld from carried interest distributions for potential giveback obligations Cash Withheld From Carried Interest Distributions For Potential Giveback Obligations Cash withheld from carried interest distributions for potential giveback obligations. Amount of accrued giveback obligation of various current and former senior Carlyle professionals and other limited partners of Carlyle Holdings partnerships Amount Of Giveback Obligation Of Current And Former Related Parties Amount of accrued giveback obligation of various current and former senior Carlyle professionals and other limited partners of Carlyle Holdings partnerships Amount of net accrued giveback obligation attributable to Carlyle Holdings Amount Of Net Accrued Giveback Obligation Of Subsidiary Amount represents the net accrued giveback obligation attributable to Carlyle Holdings Amount of realized and distributed carried interest subject to potential giveback on after-tax basis Amount Of Realized And Distributed Carried Interest Of Potential Giveback On After Tax Basis Amount of realized and distributed carried interest of potential giveback on after-tax basis. Expiration date of non-cancelable lease agreement for primary office space Lease Expiration Date Rent expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Minimum Rentals Deferred rent payable Accrued Rent Number of civil actions Number Of Civil Actions Number of civil actions. Maximum amount of potential damages according to the liquidator’s expert report Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value Loss contingency accrual Loss Contingency Accrual Total amount liable as a result of French tax court opinion Amount Liable From French Tax Opinion Amount represents the total amount amount liable as a result of an opinion from a French tax court Amount paid in current period for tax obligations by consolidated fund Amount Paid For Tax Obligations By Consolidated Fund Amount represents the total paid by one of our consolidated funds for French tax obligations Amount paid in current period for tax obligations by Partnership Amount Paid For Tax Obligations By Partnership Amount represents the total paid by the Partnership for French tax obligations. Total assets Assets Losses of Fund related to French tax matter Fund Losses Related To French Tax Matter Fund Losses Related To French Tax Matter Previously recognized losses of Fund related to French tax matter Cumulative Fund Losses Related To French Tax Matter Amount represents cumulative losses for 2013 and 2014 related to the French tax matter Number of commodities transactions in which a counterparty to our hedge fund vehicles may have defaulted Number Of Commodities Transactions In Hedge Funds Counterparty Default Represents the number of commodities transactions in which a counterparty to our hedge fund vehicles may have defaulted. Number of hedge funds in which a counterparty may have defaulted Number Of Hedge Funds Counterparty Default Represents the number of hedge funds in which a counterparty may have defaulted. Number of associated vehicles to a hedge fund in which a counterparty may have defaulted Number Of Associated Vehicles To Hedge Fund Counterparty Default Represents the number of associated vehicles to a hedge fund in which a counterparty may have defaulted. Legal and professional fees incurred to-date Amount of Legal and Professional Fees Incurred To Date For Counterparty Default Amount of legal and professional fees incurred to date for commodities transactions in which a counterparty to certain hedge fund vehicles may have defaulted. Restructuring expenses Restructuring Charges Restructuring payments Payments for Restructuring Expected restructuring costs Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Remaining Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Maximum percentage of interest on amounts due from affiliates Receivable with Imputed Interest, Effective Yield (Interest Rate) Payment of aircraft related expenses Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction Equity method investments, excluding accrued performance fees Equity Method Investments Investments in CLOs and other Investments In Collateralized Loan Obligations And Other Investments In Collateralized Loan Obligations And Other Total investments Investments Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Principal amount of loans payable Common stock, units issued (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, units outstanding (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Equity method investments Pretax impairment charge recorded during the period for intangible assets related to our credit hedge funds Impairment of Intangible Assets, Finite-lived Discount rate (as a percent) Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate Intangible asset amortization expense, excluding impairment losses Amortization of Intangible Assets Equity-Based Compensation Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Weighted-average vested Carlyle Holdings Partnership units Weighted Average Vested Carlyle Holdings Units [Member] Weighted average vested Carlyle Holdings units. Unvested Carlyle Holdings Partnership units Weighted Average Unvested Carlyle Holdings Units [Member] Weighted average unvested Carlyle Holdings units. Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Weighted-average common units outstanding, diluted (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Incremental net income from assumed exchange of Carlyle Holdings partnership units Dilutive Securities, Effect on Basic Earnings Per Share Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per unit Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Schedule of Real Estate Properties [Table] Schedule of Real Estate Properties [Table] Senior Carlyle professionals Senior Carlyle Professionals [Member] Senior Carlyle professionals. Urbplan Urb Plan [Member] Urbplan. Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] CDI Plus Cdi Plus [Member] CDI plus. IGP-M Plus Igpm Plus [Member] IGP-M plus. IPCA Plus Ipca Plus [Member] IPCA plus. Real Estate Properties [Line Items] Real Estate Properties [Line Items] Period, in days, of the financial reporting lag Period Lag Of Financial Reporting The number of days lag in which the Partnership reports the financial information for the consolidated real estate VIE. Funding by Partnership to Consolidated Real Estate VIE Funding By Partnership To Consolidated Real Estate VIE Total amount of funding to consolidated real estate VIE since initial consolidation. Partnership contractual obligation Contractual Obligation Amount of capital funding in year of consolidation Capital Funding Received In Year Of Consolidation Amount of capital funding to consolidated real estate VIE in year of consolidation. Amount of funding received by Urbplan during the period Amount Of Funding Received By Consolidated Real Estate VIE Amount of funding received by consolidated real estate VIE during the period. Amount of funding to Urbplan by Partnership during the period Amount Of Funding Received By Consolidated Real Estate VIE From Partnership Amount of funding received by consolidated real estate VIE during the period from the Partnership. Amount of funding to urbplan by senior Carlyle Professionals during the period Amount Of Funding Received By Consolidated Real Estate VIE From Senior Partnership Professionals Amount of funding received by consolidated real estate VIE during the period from Senior Partnership Professionals. Maximum additional capital investment fund Maximum Additional Capital Investment Fund Maximum additional capital investment fund. Customer receivables accrued interest rate (as a percent) Interest Rate For Customer Receivables Interest rate for customer receivables. Customer advances received Customer Advances for Construction Estimated fair value percentage of outstanding principal amounts of loans (as a percent) Percentage Of Principal Amount To Determine Estimated Fair Value Percentage of principal amount to determine estimated fair value. Additional margin interest rate (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate During Period Outstanding commitments for land development services Outstanding Commitment Assumed Outstanding commitment assumed. Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Restatement Adjustment Restatement Adjustment [Member] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] Accounting Standards Update 2015-2 Accounting Standards Update 2015-2 [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2015-2 [Member] Investment [Axis] Investment [Axis] Investment [Domain] Investment [Domain] Collateralized Loan Obligations Collateralized Loan Obligations [Member] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Deconsolidated assets Deconsolidated liabilities Liabilities Partners' Capital Partners' Capital Redeemable non-controlling interest Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity, Carrying Amount Consolidated VIEs, assets Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Consolidated VIEs, liabilities Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Investments in CLOs Consolidated Clo Investments Total of investments in CLOs that were consolidated. Basic Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Net income attributable to The Carlyle Group L.P. Dilution of earnings due to participating securities with distribution rights Participating Securities Distributed And Undistributed Earnings Basic Participating securities distributed and undistributed earnings basic. Net income attributable to common units Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Weighted-average common units outstanding, basic (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Net income per common unit (usd per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Net income attributable to The Carlyle Group L.P. Dilution of earnings due to participating securities with distribution rights Participating Securities Distributed And Undistributed Earnings Diluted Participating securities distributed and undistributed earnings diluted. Net income attributable to common units Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Net income per common unit (usd per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] Non-controlling interests in consolidated entities Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Performance fees 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Future minimum commitments for leases, total Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Investments Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of assets recognized and Partnership's maximum exposure to loss Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Segment Revenues Segment Reporting Information, Revenue for Reportable Segment [Abstract] Fund level fee revenues Fund Level Fee Revenues [Abstract] Fund level fee revenues. Portfolio advisory fees, net Portfolio Advisory Fees Portfolio advisory fees. Transaction fees, net Transaction And Other Fees Net Transaction and other fees net. Total fund level fee revenues Fee Revenues Total fee revenues. Total performance fees Total investment income (loss) Interest income Interest Income, Other Other income Other Income Segment Expenses Segment Expenses [Abstract] Segment expenses. Direct base compensation Salaries And Wages Segment Expenditures for salaries other than officers. Does not include allocated share-based compensation, pension and post-retirement benefit expense or other labor-related non-salary expense. For commercial and industrial companies, excludes any direct and overhead labor that is included in cost of goods sold. Indirect base compensation Indirect Base Compensation Expenditures for salaries for other than investment professionals. Equity-based compensation Equity Based Compensation Equity Based Compensation General, administrative, and other indirect expenses Depreciation and amortization expense Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Economic Net Income Economic Net Income (Loss) Represents segment net income which excludes the impact of income taxes, acquisition-related items including amortization of acquired intangibles and contingent considerations taking the form of earn-outs, charges for stock-based compensation grants issued as part of the initial public offering, corporate actions, and infrequently occurring or unusual events. Net Performance Fees Net Performance Fees Represents the amount of total performance fee revenue less performance fee-related compensation expense. Investment Income (Loss) Investment Income (Loss) Investment Income (Loss) Fee Related Earnings Fee Related Earnings Reflects the ability of the business to cover direct base compensation and operating expenses from fee revenues other than performance fees. Realized Net Performance Fees Net Realized Performance Fees Net realized performance fees. Realized Investment Income (Loss) Fee Related Earnings, Realized Investment Income (Loss) Fee Related Earnings, Realized Investment Income (Loss) Distributable Earnings Distributable Earnings Reflects the amount of net realized earnings without the effects of consolidation of the consolidated funds. Represents economic net income less net performance fees and investment income plus realized net performance fees and realized investment income. Segment assets Realized gains (losses) Realized Investment Gains (Losses) Net change in unrealized gains Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments Total Realized Unrealized Gains Loss From Investments Of Consolidated Funds Realized unrealized gains loss from investments of consolidated funds. Net income Profit Loss Without Consolidated Funds Without the effects of the Consolidated Funds, the consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Non-cash performance fees Non Cash Performance Fees Excluding Consolidated Funds Non-cash performance fees excluding consolidated funds. Investment (income) loss Other Noncash Income Without Consolidated Funds Without the effects of the consolidated funds, other income or gains included in net income that result in no cash inflows or outflows in the period and are not separately disclosed. Purchases of investments and trading securities Purchases Investments And Trading Securities Amount of investments and trading securities purchased during the period. Proceeds from the sale of investments and trading securities Proceeds On Sale Of Investments And Trading Securities Amount of proceeds received on investments and trading securities during the period. Payments of contingent consideration Payment Of Contingent Consideration On Acquisitions Payment of contingent consideration on acquisitions. Change in deferred taxes, net Change in due from affiliates and other receivables Increase Decrease In Due From Related Parties Current Without Consolidated Funds Without the effects of the consolidated funds, the aggregate increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the amount due from the following types of related parties: a parent company and its subsidiaries; subsidiaries of a common parent; an entity and trust for the benefit of employees, such as pension and profit-sharing trusts that are managed by or under the trusteeship of the entity's management; an entity and its principal owners, management, or member of their immediate families, affiliates, or other parties with the ability to exert significant influence. Change in deposits and other Increase Decrease In Deposit Other Asset Without Consolidated Funds Without the effects of the consolidated funds, the increase (decrease) during the reporting period in moneys or securities given as security including, but not limited to, contract, escrow, or earnest money deposits, retain-age (if applicable), deposits with clearing organizations and others, collateral, or margin deposits. Change in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Excluding Consolidated Funds Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Excluding Consolidated Funds Change in due to affiliates Increase Decrease In Due To Related Parties Current Without Consolidated Funds Without the effects of the consolidated funds, the increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the aggregate amount of obligations to be paid to the following types of related parties: a parent company and its subsidiaries; subsidiaries of a common parent; an entity and trust for the benefit of employees, such as pension and profit-sharing trusts that are managed by or under the trusteeship of the entities' management; an entity and its principal owners, management, or member of their immediate families, affiliates, or other parties with the ability to exert significant influence. Change in deferred revenue Increase Decrease In Deferred Revenue Without Consolidated Funds Without the effects of the consolidated funds the increase (decrease) during the reporting period, excluding the portion taken into income, in the liability reflecting revenue yet to be earned for which cash or other forms of consideration was received or recorded as a receivable. Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided By (Used In) Operating Activities Without Consolidated Funds Net Cash Provided By (Used In) Operating Activities Without Consolidated Funds Distributions to common unitholders Distributions to non-controlling interest holders in Carlyle Holdings Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Cash Distributions Paid Contributions from non-controlling interest holders Proceeds From Minority Shareholders Without Consolidated Funds Without the effects of the consolidated funds, the cash inflow contributed by noncontrolled interest that purchase additional shares or otherwise increase their ownership stake in a subsidiary of the entity. Distributions to non-controlling interest holders Payments To Minority Shareholders Without Consolidated Funds Without the effects of the consolidated funds, the cash outflow to return capital to noncontrolled interest, which generally occurs when noncontrolling shareholders reduce their ownership stake (in a subsidiary of the entity). This element does not include dividends paid to noncontrolling shareholders. Change in due to/from affiliates financing activities Change In Due To From Affiliates Financing Activities Without Consolidated Funds Change in due to/from affiliates financing activities without consolidated funds. Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided By Used In Financing Activities Without Consolidated Funds Without the effects of the consolidated funds, the net cash inflow or outflow from financing activity for the period. Effect of foreign exchange rate changes Effect Of Exchange Rate On Cash And Cash Equivalents Without Consolidated Funds Without the effects of the consolidated funds, the effect of exchange rate changes on cash balances held in foreign currencies. Accrued performance fees Accrued Performance Fees Amounts represent performance fees that our existing, unrealized fund portfolio would generate if we sold every asset across all of our funds at fair value as of the end of the reporting period. Carlyle Beijing Partners, L.P. Carlyle Beijing Partners, L.P. [Member] Carlyle Beijing Partners, L.P. [Member] Carlyle Realty Partners V, L.P. Carlyle Realty Partners V, L.P. [Member] Carlyle Realty Partners V, L.P. [Member] Carlyle Realty Partners VII, L.P. Carlyle Realty Partners VII, L.P. [Member] Carlyle Realty Partners VII, L.P. [Member] Carlyle Partners V, L.P. Carlyle Partners V, L.P. [Member] Carlyle Partners V, L.P. Carlyle Europe Partners III, L.P. Carlyle Europe Partners III, L.P. [Member] Carlyle Europe Partners III, L.P. Carlyle Asia Growth Partners IV, L.P. [Member] Carlyle Asia Growth Partners IV, L.P. [Member] Carlyle Asia Growth Partners IV, L.P. [Member] Carlyle Realty Partners VI, L.P. Carlyle Realty Partners VI, L.P [Member] Carlyle Realty Partners VI, L.P [Member] Carlyle/Riverstone Global Energy and Power Fund III, L.P. Carlyle/Riverstone Global Energy and Power Fund III, L.P. [Member] Carlyle/Riverstone Global Energy and Power Fund III, L.P. [Member] Percentage of accrued performance fees related to certain Corporate Private Equity funds Percentage Of Accrued Performance Fees Related To Certain Corporate Private Equity Funds Percentage of accrued performance fees related to certain corporate private equity funds. Number of Partnership's Corporate Private Equity funds related to accrued performance fees Number Of Partnerships Corporate Private Equity Funds Related To Accrued Performance Fees Number of partnerships corporate private equity funds related to accrued performance fees. Amount paid during period to satisfy giveback obligation to one of our funds Amount Paid During Period For Giveback Obligation For a Fund Amount paid during period to satisfy giveback obligation to one of our Corporate Private Equity funds Percentage of performance fees related to certain Corporate Private Equity funds Percentage Of Performance Fees Related To Certain Corporate Private Equity Funds Percentage of performance fees related to certain corporate private equity funds. Performance fees related to certain Corporate Private Equity funds Performance Fees Related To Certain Corporate Private Equity Funds Performance fees related to certain corporate private equity funds. Revenue (losses) recognized on certain Corporate Private Equity funds Performance Fees On Certain Corporate Private Equity Funds Amount of revenue earned by the entity based on the investment results achieved for certain of corporate private equity funds. Excludes fees based upon a percentage of the assets under management not performance-related. Number of Partnership's Corporate Private Equity funds related to performance fees Number Of Partnerships Corporate Private Equity Funds Related To Performance Fees Number of partnerships corporate private equity funds related to performance fees. Number of Partnerships Real Asset funds related to performance fees Number Of Partnerships Real Asset Funds Related To Performance Fees Number of partnerships real asset funds related to performance fees. The Carlyle Group, L.P. Carlyle Group Lp [Member] Carlyle Group L.P. Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] Equity Settled Awards Equity Settled Awards [Member] Equity settled awards. Cash Settled Awards Cash Settled Awards [Member] Cash settled awards. Unvested Common Units Unvested Common Units [Member] Unvested common units. Unvested Units Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Beginning balance (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Granted (in shares) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Granted Other In Period Units granted under share-based compensation arrangement other than as part of the initial public offering. Vested (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Forfeited (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Ending balance (in shares) Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Beginning balance (usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted (usd per share) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Granted Other Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-average grant date fair value of units granted under share-based compensation arrangement other than as part of the initial public offering. Vested (usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited (usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Ending balance (usd per share) Contingent Consideration Contingent Consideration [Text Block] The entire disclosure for our contingent considerations related to our business acquisitions and strategic investments. Organization and Basis of Presentation Business Description and Basis of Presentation [Text Block] Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of investments Investment [Table Text Block] Schedule of net investment earnings (loss) Realized Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of equity method investments Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Components of investment income (loss) Investment Income [Table Text Block] Schedule of income (loss) from equity-method investments Equity Method Investment Income [Table Text Block] Equity method investment income. Components of interest and other income of consolidated funds Interest and Other Income [Table Text Block] Components of net investment gains (losses) of consolidated funds Net Investment Gains Losses [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of net investment gains losses of consolidated funds. Schedule of realized and unrealized gains (losses) earned from investments of consolidated funds Realized And Unrealized Gains Earned From Investments [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of realized and unrealized gains earned from investments of consolidated funds. Assets Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents held at Consolidated Funds Cash And Cash Equivalents At Carrying Value Held At Consolidated Funds Cash and cash equivalents held at consolidated funds represents cash and cash equivalents held by consolidated funds and other consolidated entities. Such amounts are not available to fund general liquidity needs of the business. Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Restricted cash and securities of Consolidated Funds Restricted Cash And Cash Equivalents And Securities Of Consolidated Funds Amounts represent restricted cash and securities held by consolidated funds and other consolidated entities. Such amounts are not available to fund general liquidity needs of the business. Corporate treasury investments Corporate Treasury investments Investments U.S. Treasury and government agency obligations, commercial paper, certificates of deposit, other investment grade securities and other investments with original maturities of greater than three months when purchased. Investments Investments of Consolidated Funds Investments Of Consolidated Funds Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all investments held at the consolidated funds and other consolidated entities. Due from affiliates and other receivables, net Due from Affiliates Due from affiliates and other receivables of Consolidated Funds, net Due From Affiliates Of Consolidated Funds For an unclassified balance sheet, amount of receivables due from an entity that is affiliated with the reporting entities' consolidated funds and other consolidated entities by means of direct or indirect ownership. Receivables and inventory of a consolidated real estate VIE Fixed assets, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Deposits and other Other Assets Other assets of a consolidated real estate VIE Intangible assets, net Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Total assets Liabilities and partners’ capital Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Debt obligations Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Loans payable of Consolidated Funds Loan Payable To Affiliate Of Consolidated Funds Including the current and noncurrent portions, aggregate carrying value as of the balance sheet date of loans payable held at consolidated funds and other consolidated entities. Loans payable of a consolidated real estate VIE at fair value (principal amount of $136.1 million and $125.6 million as of June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively) Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Accrued compensation and benefits Due to affiliates Due to Affiliate Deferred revenue Deferred Revenue Deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Other liabilities of Consolidated Funds Other Liabilities Of Consolidated Funds Sum of the carrying values as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred by consolidate funds and other consolidated entities through that date, including liabilities incurred and payable to vendors for goods and services received, taxes, interest, rent and utilities, compensation costs, payroll taxes and fringe benefits (other than pension and postretirement obligations), contractual rights and obligations, and statutory obligations. Other liabilities of a consolidated real estate VIE Other Liabilities Of Consolidated Real Estate Vie The total amount of other liabilities for a consolidated real estate VIE. Accrued giveback obligations Total liabilities Commitments and contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated entities Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity, Fair Value Partners’ capital (common units 81,547,568 and 80,408,702 issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively) Temporary Equity Partners Capital Temporary equity partners capital. Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Partners’ capital appropriated for Consolidated Funds Equity Appropriated For Consolidated Funds Amount of partners' capital appropriated for consolidated funds and other consolidated entities. Non-controlling interests in Carlyle Holdings Minority Interest In Subsidiary Total of all partners' capital which is attributable to Carlyle Holdings. Total partners’ capital Total liabilities and partners’ capital Liabilities and Equity Maximum lag period for which the partnership investments in funds are valued (in days) Maximum Lag Period For Which Partnership Investments In Funds Are Valued Maximum lag period for which the partnership investments in funds are valued. Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Notes receivable and accrued interest from affiliates Notes Receivable And Accrued Interest From Affiliates Notes receivable and accrued interest from affiliates. Other receivables from unconsolidated funds and affiliates, net Other Receivables From Unconsolidated Funds And Affiliates Other receivables from unconsolidated funds and affiliates. Total 2016 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Thereafter Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five Total Finite Lived Intangible Asset Net Estimated Amortization Expense Amount represents the five year total of estimated amortization expense for the finite-lived intangible assets. Total Reportable Segments Consolidated Funds Reconciling Items Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Revenues Expenses Other income Economic net income Economic Net Income Loss Reconciliation Distributed Earnings Represents segment net income which excludes the impact of income taxes, acquisition-related items including amortization of acquired intangibles and contingent considerations taking the form of earn-outs, charges for stock-based compensation grants issued as part of the initial public offering, corporate actions, and infrequently occurring or unusual events. Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Unvested deferred restricted common units Restricted Common Units [Member] Restricted common units. Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Estimated useful life of finite lived intangible assets (in years) Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Long-term Debt, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Long-term Debt, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2016 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2017 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2018 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2019 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2020 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Total outstanding principal amounts on the loans Long-term Debt Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Trading securities and other Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Balance, beginning of period Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Transfers out Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers out of Level 3 Deconsolidation of funds Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Initial Deconsolidation of Funds Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Initial Deconsolidation of Funds Purchases Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases Sales Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Sales Settlements Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Settlements Realized and unrealized gains (losses), net Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share, Unobservable Input, Gains (Losses), Included in Earnings, Net, Alternative [Abstract] Included in earnings Fair Value, Measured on Recurring Basis, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Included in other comprehensive income Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Balance, end of period Changes in unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings related to financial assets still held at the reporting date Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Trading securities Due to affiliates of Consolidated Funds Due To Affiliates Of Consolidated Funds Due to affiliates of consolidated funds. Due to non-consolidated affiliates Due To Non Consolidated Affiliates Due to non-consolidated affiliates. Performance-based contingent cash and equity consideration related to acquisitions Contingent Consideration Related To Acquisitions Payable To Affiliates Contingent consideration related to acquisitions payable to affiliates. Amounts owed under the tax receivable agreement Amounts Owed Under Tax Receivable Agreement Amounts owed under tax receivable agreement. Other Due To Affiliates Other Due to affiliates, other. Total Adjustments Performance fee related compensation expense Total performance fee related compensation expense Performance Fee Related Compensation Expense Performance fee related compensation expense. Net performance fees Net Performance Fees [Abstract] Net performance fees. Realized Performance Fee Realized Net Performance fee realized net. Unrealized Performance Fee Unrealized Net Performance fee unrealized net. Total net performance fees Summary of status of non-vested equity-based awards Schedule of Nonvested Share Activity [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Loans Payable of Consolidated Funds Loans Payable Of Consolidated Funds [Member] Loans payable of consolidated funds. Contingent Consideration Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Balance, beginning of period Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliations, Recurring Basis, Liability Value Initial consolidation / deconsolidation of funds Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Initial Deconsolidation of Funds Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Initial Deconsolidation of Funds Initial consolidation of funds Fair Value Measurement Unobservable Input Initial Consolidation This element represents the fair value of the financial assets that were initially consolidated during the period using unobservable inputs (Level 3). Borrowings Paydowns Fair Value Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Paydowns Paydowns related to the financial liability that is measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs. Sales Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Sales Realized and unrealized (gains) losses, net Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings [Abstract] Included in earnings Financial Liabilities, Fair Value, Measured on Recurring Basis, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Financial Liabilities, Fair Value, Measured on Recurring Basis, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Included in other comprehensive income Financial Liabilities, Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Financial Liabilities, Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Balance, end of period Changes in unrealized (gains) losses included in earnings related to financial liabilities still held at the reporting date Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Borrowing Outstanding Long-term Debt, Gross Fair Value Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Weighted Average Interest Rate (as a percent) Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Weighted Average Remaining Maturity in Years Debt Instrument Weighted Average Remaining Life Debt instrument weighted average remaining life. Investment Income [Table] Investment Income [Table] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] Private Equity And Real Estate Fund Private Equity And Real Estate Fund [Member] Private equity and real estate fund. Net Investment Income [Line Items] Net Investment Income [Line Items] Fund Management Fees Management Fees Revenue [Abstract] Percentage of management fees earned Percentage Of Management Fees Earned Percentage Of Management Fees Earned Percentage of management fees earned on unrealized investments after termination of the investment period Percentage Of Management Fees For Unrealized Investments After Termination Of Investment Period Percentage Of Management Fees For Unrealized Investments After Termination Of Investment Period Period of time for which management fees will be received by partners from the initial closing date (in years) Period For Management Fees Received By Partners From Initial Closing Date Period of time for which management fees will be received by partners from initial closing date. Extension period for fund closing (in years) Extension Period For Fund Closing Extension period for fund closing. Subsequent period in which management fees are recognized after these fees are called (in months) Subsequent Period Management Fees Recognized After Called Period of time subsequent to being called that management fees are recognized as earned. Percentage of management fees paid by hedge funds Percentage Of Management Fees Paid By Hedge Funds Percentage Of Management Fees Paid By Hedge Funds Percentage of management fees for business development companies Percentage Of Management Fees For Business Development Companies Percentage of management fees for business development companies based on average daily gross assets, excluding cash and cash equivalents. Percentage of management fees for CLOs on the total par amount of assets in the fund Percentage Of Management Fees Related To Collateralized Loan Obligation Percentage Of Management Fees Related To Collateralized Loan Obligation Period of management fees related to Collateralized Loan Obligation (in years) Period Of Management Fees Related To Collateralized Loan Obligation Period Of Management Fees Related To Collateralized Loan Obligation Percentage of management fees from funds of funds during the commitment fee period Percentage Of Management Fees From Funds Of Funds During Commitment Fee Period Percentage Of Management Fees From Funds Of Funds During Commitment Fee Period Percentage of management fees from fund of funds following the expiration of the weighted-average investment period Percentage Of Management Fees Of Adjusted Contributions For Unrealized Investments Following Expiration Of Weighted Average Investment Period Percentage Of Management Fees Of Adjusted Contributions For Unrealized Investments Following Expiration Of Weighted Average Investment Period Transaction and advisory fees Transaction And Portfolio Advisory Fees Included In Fund Management Fees Transaction and portfolio advisory fees included in fund management fees. Performance Fees Performance fees allocation percentage to partnership Performance Fees Allocation Percentage To Partnership Performance fees allocation percentage to partnership. External coinvestment vehicles (as a percent) Percentage Of Allocation Based Performance Fees Related To External Coinvestment Vehicles Percentage of allocation based performance fees related to external coinvestment vehicles. Percentage of allocation based performance fees related to fund of funds vehicles Percentage Of Allocation Based Performance Fees Related To Fund Of Funds Vehicles Percentage Of Allocation Based Performance Fees Related To Fund Of Funds Vehicles Percent of preferred returns Percent of Preferred Returns Percent of Preferred Returns Interest Income Interest Income (Expense), Net [Abstract] Interest income of Consolidated Funds Investment Income, Interest Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] CLO Term Loan Term Loan One [Member] Term Loan One [Member] Borrowing Outstanding Carrying Value Notes and Loans Payable Partners’ capital Accumulated other comprehensive loss Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Unrealized losses on cash flow hedge instruments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax Currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax Unrealized losses on defined benefit plans Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Loss before provision for income taxes Adjustments: Adjustments [Abstract] Adjustments. Equity-based compensation issued in conjunction with the initial public offering, acquisitions and strategic investments Share Based Compensation Segment The aggregate amount of noncash, equity-based employee remuneration for segment reporting purposes. This may include the value of stock or unit options, amortization of restricted stock or units, and adjustment for officers' compensation. As noncash, this element is an add back when calculating net cash generated by operating activities using the indirect method. Acquisition related charges, including amortization of intangibles and impairment Acquisition Related Charges And Amortization Of Intangibles Acquisition related charges and amortization of intangibles. Tax provision associated with performance fees Performance Fee Related Compensation Expense, Tax Amount represents tax expense associated with performance fee compensation. Net (income) loss attributable to non-controlling interests in consolidated entities Severance and other adjustments Severance And Other Intercompany Expenses Adjustments Severance And Other Intercompany Expenses Adjustments Economic Net Income Net performance fees Realized performance fees, net of related compensation Realized investment income (loss) Non-controlling Interests in Consolidated Entities Noncontrolling Interest Disclosure [Text Block] Accrued giveback obligations Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Estimated useful life of other fixed assets (in years) Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Accrued Performance Fees Accrued Performance Fees [Text Block] Accrued performance fees. Carlyle Commodity Management Carlyle Commodity Management [Member] Carlyle Commodity Management [Member] Claren Road Claren Road [Member] Claren road. Number of reportable segments Number of Reportable Segments Percentage of economic interest Percentage Of Economic Interest Percentage of economic interest. Revised ownership percentage Revised Ownership Interest Percentage Percentage represents the revised percentage ownership based on restructuring of agreements Alternate economic interest if a subsidiary’s performance hurdles are not exceeded (percent) Alternate Economic Interest In Subsidiary Subject To Performance Hurdles Percentage represents an alternate economic interest in one of our subsidiaries provided the subsidiary does not meet certain performance hurdles. Changes in contingent consideration liabilities Schedule Of Changes In Contingent Consideration Resulting From Acquisitions [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes in contingent consideration resulting from acquisitions. Percentage of estimated realizable tax benefit to be paid by corporate taxpayers on exchange transactions Percentage Of Estimated Realizable Tax Benefit To Be Paid By Corporate Taxpayers On Exchange Transactions Percentage of estimated realizable tax benefit to be paid by corporate taxpayers on exchange transactions. Percentage of remaining estimated realizable tax benefit on exchange transactions Percentage Of Remaining Estimated Realizable Tax Benefit On Exchange Transactions Percentage of remaining estimated realizable tax benefit on exchange transactions. Cash received to satisfy collateral requirements Cash Collateral for Borrowed Securities Foreign currency translation (gains) losses Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Components of Partnership's non-controlling interests in consolidated entities Schedule Of Components Of Partnerships Non Controlling Interests In Consolidated Entities Table [Table Text Block] Schedule of components of partnerships non controlling interests in consolidated entities. Components of Partnership's non-controlling interests in income (loss) of consolidated entities Schedule Of Components Of Partnerships Non Controlling Interests In Income Loss Of Consolidated Entities Table [Table Text Block] Schedule of components of partnerships non controlling interests in income loss of consolidated entities. Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Carrying amount of intangible assets Schedule of Intangible Assets and Goodwill [Table Text Block] Carrying amount of goodwill by segment Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Summary of expected amortization expense Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other comprehensive loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Cash flow hedges Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax [Abstract] Reclassification adjustment for loss included in interest expense Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax Defined benefit plans Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax [Abstract] Unrealized gain (loss) for the period Other Comprehensive Income Unrealized Gain Loss On Defined Benefit Plan During Period Net Of Tax Amount after tax of increase (decrease) in accumulated gain (loss) from defined benefit plans arising during the period. Less: reclassification adjustment for loss during the period, included in base compensation expense Other Comprehensive Income Loss Reclassification Pension And Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Net Gain Loss Recognized In Net Periodic Benefit Cost Net Of Tax Other comprehensive income loss reclassification pension and other postretirement benefit plans net gain loss recognized in net periodic benefit cost net of tax. Other comprehensive loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive loss attributable to partners’ capital appropriated for Consolidated Funds Comprehensive Income Loss Net Of Taxes Attributable To Equity Appropriated For Consolidated Funds Comprehensive income loss net of taxes attributable to equity appropriated for consolidated funds. Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to non-controlling interests in consolidated entities Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated entities Comprehensive Income Net Of Taxes Attributable To Redeemable Non Controlling Interests In Consolidated Entities Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests in consolidated entities. Comprehensive income attributable to Carlyle Holdings Comprehensive Income Attributable To Subsidiary Holdings Comprehensive income attributable to Carlyle Holdings. Comprehensive income attributable to non-controlling interests in Carlyle Holdings Comprehensive Income Net Of Tax Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest In Subsidiary Comprehensive income net of tax attributable to noncontrolling interest in subsidiary. Comprehensive income attributable to The Carlyle Group L.P. Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Gains from investments of Consolidated Funds Realized Unrealized Gains From Investments Of Consolidated Funds Realized unrealized gains from investments of consolidated funds. Losses from liabilities of CLOs Realized Unrealized Gain Loss From Collateralized Loan Obligations Of Consolidated Funds Realized Unrealized Gain Loss from Collateralized Loan Obligations of Consolidated Funds Gains (losses) on other assets of CLOs Realized Unrealized Gains Loss On Other Assets Of Collateralized Loan Obligations Of Consolidated Funds Realized/unrealized gains/losses on other assets of collateralized loan obligations of consolidated funds. Total Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Due from affiliates, net Accounts Receivable, Net Maximum Exposure to Loss Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount Amount of variable interests in unconsolidated VIEs related to performance fees Amount Of Variable Interests In Unconsolidated VIEs Related To Performance Fees Amount Of Variable Interests In Unconsolidated VIEs Related To Performance Fees Amount of variable interests in unconsolidated VIEs related to management fees Amount Of Variable Interests In Unconsolidated VIEs Related To Management Fees Amount Of Variable Interests In Unconsolidated VIEs Related To Management Fees Income Taxes [Table] Income Taxes [Table] Income Taxes [Table] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] U.S. Federal Domestic Tax Authority [Member] State and Local State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] Foreign Foreign Tax Authority [Member] Income Taxes [Line Items] Income Taxes [Line Items] Income Taxes [Line Items] Provision for income taxes Income tax examination, start year Income Tax Examination Year Under Examination Range Start Income tax examination year under examination range start. Income tax examination, end year Income Tax Examination Year Under Examination Range End Income tax examination year under examination range end. Number of years federal income tax returns are subject to examination Period Of Federal Income Tax Returns Subject To Examination Period of federal income tax returns subject to examination. Period in which significant changes in unrecognized tax benefits are not expected Period In Which Significant Changes In Unrecognized Tax Benefits Are Not Expected Period in which significant changes in unrecognized tax benefits are not expected. Amounts payable to the sellers who are Carlyle professionals Carlyle Consolidated [Member] Carlyle consolidated. Contingent cash and other consideration payable to non- Carlyle personnel Non Carlyle Personnel [Member] Non Carlyle personnel. Employment-based Employment Based [Member] Employment based. Loss Contingency Accrual [Roll Forward] Loss Contingency Accrual [Roll Forward] Balance, beginning of period Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability Change in carrying value Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration, Liability Payments Value Of Compensation To Employees Value of compensation to employees. Conversion to note payable Employment Based Contingent Consideration Conversion To Notes Payable Employment Based Contingent Consideration Conversion To Notes Payable Issuance of equity Employment Based Contingent Consideration Unit Issuance Value of common units issued as a result of certain employment-based performance conditions were achieved. Balance, end of period Management fees Management Fees, Income (Loss) Management Fees, Income (Loss) Performance fees Performance Fees, Income (Loss) Performance Fees, Income (Loss) Investment income (loss) Investment Income, Income (Loss) Investment Income, Income (Loss) Expenses and amortization of basis differences Amortization Net investment income (loss) Net Realized Investment Gains Losses Net Realized Investment Gains Losses Consolidation of a Real Estate Development Company Consolidation Of Real Estate Variable Interest Entity [Text Block] Consolidation of a real estate development company variable interest entity and disclosure of all of the significant accounting policies of that entity. New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] Accounting Standards Update 2014-13 Accounting Standards Update 2014-13 [Member] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] Fair Value Measurement Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption [Table] New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption [Table] Accounting Standards Update 2015-03 [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2015-03 [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2015-03 [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Deposits And Other Assets Deposits And Other Assets [Member] Deposits And Other Assets [Member] Long-term Debt [Member] Long-term Debt [Member] New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption [Line Items] New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption [Line Items] Debt issuance costs Deferred Finance Costs, Net Interest income from investments Total Income from equity investments Income (loss) from investments in CLOs Trading Securities, Realized Gain (Loss) Other investment income Other Investments Income Loss Other investments income (loss). Summary of accrued compensation and benefits Schedule of Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block] Amounts due from affiliates and other receivables Schedule Of Due From Affiliates And Other Receivables Table [Table Text Block] Schedule of due from affiliates and other receivables. Amounts due to affiliates Schedule Of Due To Affiliates Table [Table Text Block] Schedule of due to affiliates. Authorized amount for share repurchases Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Payments for repurchase of common units Units repurchased and retired (in shares) Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares Amount to be paid for units repurchased during period but pending settlement at period end Future Payments For Repurchase Of Units Pending Settlement Amount to be paid for units repurchased during period but pending settlement at period end Number of units repurchased during period but pending settlement at period end (in shares) Units Repurchased, Pending Settlement Amount to be paid for units repurchased during period but pending settlement at period end Income Statement [Abstract] Other non-operating expenses (income) Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests in consolidated entities Net income attributable to non-controlling interests in Carlyle Holdings Net income attributable to The Carlyle Group L.P. per common unit (see Note 14) Basic (usd per share) Diluted (usd per share) Weighted-average common units Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Basic (in shares) Diluted (in shares) Distributions declared per common unit (dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Non-Carlyle economic interests in acquired business Economic Interests In Acquired Business Economic interests in acquired business. Severance and other adjustments Severance And Other Adjustments Expenses Severance And Other Adjustments Expenses Total expenses adjustment Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]