The Layout - The temple is adorned with a majestic five-tiered Raja Gopuram and features a sanctum that faces west, setting it apart in architectural orientation. Entry into the temple is marked by the presence of two Dwara-palakas, with the shrine of Subramanya situated to the left as one steps inside. The outer prakaram, or circumambulatory path, includes shrines for Vinayaka, Viswanatha, and Visalakshi, while the mandap beyond the gateway houses the Navagraha on the right and Gyanambikai on the left, who stands gracefully, symbolizing the bestowal of 'Gyana' or knowledge. At the heart of the temple is the west-facing sanctum of Athmanatheswar, represented as a Swayambhu Linga. The prakaram enveloping the sanctum is richly populated with shrines dedicated to Subramanya, the Navagraha, the four principal Nayanmars, Moola Vinayaka, Pancha Linga, Dakshinamurthy, Chandikeshwarar, Kasi Viswanathar and Visalakshi, as well as Muruga with Valli and Deivanai, and Nataraja. Esteemed figures such as Sage Kashyap and the Ashta Vasu are believed to have worshipped here, and the temple's Durga is considered especially powerful. Notably, Dakshinamurthy is revered in this temple as Medha Dakshinamurthy, a form associated with intellect and wisdom.