Which Tulsi Japa Mala Should You Choose? Round, Chunk, Conch or 27 Beads

A Tulsi japa mala is a devotee’s closest companion. Every round of the Hare Krishna maha-mantra passes through your fingers. With so many styles, it helps to know which one suits you.

The classic round mala

The Original Tulsi Japa Mala has 108 round beads and is the everyday choice. It is light, comfortable and made for daily japa.

Chunk beads: easy to hold

The Chunk 24mm Tulsi Japa Mala has 108 plus one Sumeru bead, in large 24 mm beads. The page describes them as easy to grip and good for long chanting. They are prepared in Mayapur by Vaishnava artisans over 10 to 12 days.

The conch design

The Tulsi Conch Japa Mala has 108 beads of original Tulsi wood, coloured by a special technique that is designed to last. It is a lovely choice for daily japa, and for gifting.

27 beads: for travel

The 27-bead Tulsi mala is compact and easy to carry. Go around four times for one full round. Our 27-bead mala guide has more.

Caring for your mala

Keep it clean and dry, and never let it touch the ground. A japa bag keeps your mala safe. For more, read how to identify an original Tulsi mala.

How to hold and chant on your mala

Many devotees hold the mala in the right hand, and move each bead with the thumb and the middle finger. They chant one maha-mantra on each bead, and they do not cross the large Sumeru bead. At the Sumeru bead they turn the mala around and go back the other way. Ask your spiritual teacher about the practice you follow.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Sumeru bead?

It is the larger head bead. It marks the beginning and end of each round of 108.

Which size is best?

Round beads are light for daily use. The 24 mm chunk beads are large and easy to grip. The 27-bead mala is the most portable.

Are your malas made from original Tulsi?

Yes, our malas are made from original Tulsi wood. Read how to identify an original Tulsi japa mala.

Ordering

We ship worldwide by DHL Express, FedEx, Aramex or India Post Express. You can pay by PayPal, Payoneer, Razorpay or UPI, and we can arrange bank transfer or Wise on request. Message us on WhatsApp first if you have a question.

Hare Krishna! May every bead bring you closer to the holy name.