Chilanthi Temple
The world's only known Chilanthiyambalam is located in Kodumon Panchayat of Pathanamthitta District. The Pallyara Devi Temple, situated about 1.5 kilometers east of Kodumon Junction on the Ezhamkulam–Kaipattoor Road, is popularly known as Chilanthiyambalam.
Many devotees visit the temple seeking relief from spider bites and related ailments. It is widely believed that offering prayers here can cure severe spider poisoning.
Legend of Chilanthiyambalam
The history and legend of Chilanthiyambalam are closely associated with Sakthibhadra, the author of the famous Sanskrit drama Ascharyachoodamani.A renowned Brahmin family known as Chenneerkara Swaroopam once lived in Kodumon, and the Pallyara Devi Temple is believed to have been under their control.According to local legend, the temple came to be known as Chilanthiyambalam following the spiritual liberation of a woman from the Sakthibhadra family. The story speaks of divine spiders weaving webs around her during her meditation, eventually leading to her attaining salvation.
