12 Indian Chai Varieties Every Tea Lover Needs

8. Tulsi Chai (Holy Basil Tea)

Tulsi chai brings holy basil (tulsi) into the cup, either mixed with black tea or brewed alone as an herbal infusion. Tulsi leaves add a peppery, clove-like freshness that lifts a milky cup or makes a calming clear infusion. For a blended tulsi chai, add a few fresh or dried tulsi leaves to boiling water with your chosen spices, then add tea and milk as usual. If brewing tulsi solo, steep leaves for 3–5 minutes and serve without milk or with a splash of milk. In Indian homes tulsi is a familiar herb, often grown on windowsills or in small pots. Tulsi chai is appreciated for its everyday drinkability and gentle, herbal complexity that pairs well with light snacks. Packaged tulsi blends and tulsi-tea bags are easy ways to sample this aromatic style if you don’t have fresh leaves on hand.