In the Buddhist world, there are an infinite number of "world systems" - an imaginary central axis that runs upward toward the cosmos with a line through Buddha as he sites in a cave within a mythological mountain known as Mount Meru. This forms a tall pyramidal form with sides of godl, lapis, silver, and crystal. The mountain has four terraces on which live highly evolved spiritual beings. A progression of 16 heavens starts at the very top of Mount Meru. Sixteen levels of the underworld exist below the base of the mountain. In Buddhist belief there are eight levels of hot hell and a similar number of cold hell within the underworld. 

It is important to understand that no one is without a chance for redemption. Through good deeds it is possible to move upward along the axis toward the ultimate enlightenment. The cycle of reincarnations is built around a quest for perfection.

Picture scanned from the April 1996 issue of National Geographic; page 58.