This temple for Lord Siva in the form of Ardhanaareeswarar is situated in (Kongunadu) Namakkal district, 18 kms from Erode.

There are two temples, one in the centre of the city - Kailaayanathar temple & one temple for Arthanaareeswarar built at 1900 ft above sea level atop a hillock called Naagagiri (Naaga - snake ; giri-mountain) which has two enjoined peaks.

The Kailaayanathar temple was built by the Naayakars & the Lord here is also known as Nila Thambiraan ( one who gives darshan on land).  There are shrines for all the other Saiva gods.  It is also popular as a Murugar temple.

The Ardhanaareeswarar temple can be reached by climbing about 1220 steps on which are carved serpent forms.
Three serpent forms can be seen at the entrance of the hill temple.  The Raja gopuram has five levels & five kalasams.

The main Prakaram can be reached by climbing down 20 steps from the entrance. The Lord atop the hill is also known as Malai Thambiraan  (one who gives darshan on a hill).  There is a sannadhi for Muruga.  Arunagirinathar has sung in praise of this Lord.  In the main Sannadhi Lord Siva is seen with Devi in the form of Ardhanaareeswarar.  There is an idol of Bringi rishi at the foot of Ardhanaareeswarar.  According to legend, Bringi munivar worshipped only the Lord, neglecting to worship Parvathi Devi.  To teach the rishi a lesson, Parvathi Devi asked to share the Lord's body & hence became one with him.  This form indicates that Siva - conciousness and Sakthi - energy are both equally important & are inseparable.

There is water sprouting at the feet of the Murti & this is offered as prasaadam to the devotees.

There is a also a shrine for Aadi Kesava Perumal (Mangalasaasanam by Nammazhwar).  Thirugnana Sambandar has also sung the praise of this Lord.

The temple also boasts of wonderful sculptural adornments.