Sinhala Keyboard Online
Type in Sinhala Online using the virtual keyboard below and then copy it to your clipboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sinhala script?
The Sinhala script (Sinhala hodiya) is the writing system for the Sinhala language, the official language of Sri Lanka. It is a Brahmic script and is known for its beautiful, rounded letter shapes.
Why does the Sinhala alphabet have so many characters?
The full Sinhala alphabet, known as 'Elu hodiya', includes a complete set of letters for both native Sinhala sounds and sounds borrowed from Sanskrit and Pali, resulting in a large and comprehensive character set.
How do vowels work in Sinhala?
Like other Brahmic scripts, Sinhala is an abugida. Consonants have an inherent 'a' sound. This is changed by adding vowel signs (called 'pili') to the consonant. For example, 'ක' (ka) becomes 'කා' (kā) or 'කි' (ki).
Does this keyboard support phonetic typing?
Yes, you can enable 'Phonetic Typing' mode to type Sinhala using English letters that sound similar. This is often the easiest way for new users to start typing.
What are conjunct characters ('bandi akuru')?
When two consonants appear together, they can form a 'conjunct' character, where one might be a half-form or a special combined shape. Our phonetic mode helps to form these automatically.
Are there capital letters in Sinhala?
No, the Sinhala script does not have a distinction between uppercase and lowercase letters.
How are the letters on the keyboard organized?
The keyboard displays the main independent vowels and the base consonant forms. The phonetic mode is the most efficient way to type, as it handles the combination of consonants and vowel signs for you.
Is this tool good for learning to write in Sinhala?
It's an excellent tool for practicing typing and getting familiar with the character shapes. To learn the language properly, it should be used with a structured course that teaches grammar, vocabulary, and the rules of the script.
How do I type my name in Sinhala?
The best method is to use the phonetic typing mode. Spell out your name based on its pronunciation, and the tool will transliterate it into the closest Sinhala equivalent.
What are the two 'la' and 'na' sounds?
Sinhala distinguishes between an alveolar 'n' (න) and 'l' (ල) and a retroflex 'ṇ' (ණ) and 'ḷ' (ළ). The retroflex sounds are made with the tongue curled further back in the mouth.
Can I copy and paste the text from this tool?
Yes! After typing, just click the 'Copy Text' button to copy the entire contents of the text area to your clipboard.
Do I need to install a special Sinhala font?
No, most modern operating systems like Windows, macOS, and mobile platforms have built-in support and fonts (like 'Noto Sans Sinhala') that can display the script correctly.
What is the 'anusvaraya' (ං)?
This symbol, also known as 'binduva', represents a nasal sound, similar to the 'ng' in 'sing'. It follows a vowel.
Why are some characters circular?
The circular, flowing shapes of the Sinhala script are a result of its evolution. It was traditionally written on dried palm leaves, and writing straight horizontal or vertical lines could tear the leaf, so rounded shapes were favored.
Is Sinhala related to Hindi or Tamil?
Sinhala is an Indo-Aryan language, making it related to Hindi, Bengali, and other North Indian languages. It is not closely related to Tamil, which is a Dravidian language, though it has borrowed many words from it.