Types of Japa

Updated August 2026 · Simha Studios

Japa is the repeated recollection of a mantra or divine name. The four methods below differ in how the repetition is expressed: through the voice, a near-silent murmur, the mind, or the written word.

The spelling is Vaikhari, though Vachika is also used for spoken japa. Practice instructions vary by mantra and lineage. If you have received a mantra from a teacher, follow the method they have given you.

Vaikhari japa

Vaikhari japa is audible repetition: the mantra is spoken clearly enough to be heard. It gives the practitioner a way to learn the mantra's sound, rhythm, and pronunciation with steady attention. Keep the voice natural rather than forceful; the aim is recollection, not volume. This method can be especially helpful when the mind is restless or when you are first becoming familiar with a mantra.

Upamshu japa

Upamshu japa is quiet repetition in which the lips and tongue move, but the sound is kept extremely soft, traditionally audible only to the practitioner. It sits between fully audible and fully mental japa, giving the mind a physical rhythm without filling the surrounding space with sound. The mantra should remain distinct rather than becoming a vague breath or murmur. It is a practical choice for a shared home, temple, or any place where a full voice would be unsuitable.

Manasika japa

Manasika japa is repetition performed inwardly, with no audible sound and no deliberate movement of the lips. The mantra is held clearly in the mind, one complete repetition at a time, rather than rushed or left half-formed. Because it depends entirely on attention, it can reveal quickly when the mind has wandered; simply return to the next repetition. It is not a test of spiritual advancement: use it when the mantra can remain clear and stable, or follow the guidance of your teacher or lineage.

Likhita japa

Likhita japa is the devotional practice of writing a mantra or divine name repeatedly. Writing gives the practice a slower, visible rhythm: the hand, eye, and attention all return to the same sacred words. Use the correct wording and spelling, and write without hurrying simply to reach a number. It can be a helpful complement to spoken or mental japa, though a formal count or observance should follow the rules given by your tradition or teacher.

Choosing a method

Choose the form that lets you stay present with the mantra today. Audible repetition can steady a scattered mind; quiet repetition can preserve rhythm in a shared space; mental repetition can suit a settled mind; and writing can offer a deliberate, tangible practice. You do not need to turn these into a ladder or force yourself into a method that makes the mantra less clear.

A simple, respectful practice

Choose one mantra and repeat it at a pace that keeps the words clear.
Use a mala or another honest counting method if you are keeping a count.
When attention wanders, begin again with the next repetition without judging the interruption.
For a formal observance, follow the instructions of the tradition or teacher from whom it comes.

Start with what Mantra Yoga is, learn about purascharana counts and daily practice, or browse all mantras.