Vedic Cosmos

The highest realm, abode of Brahma. Beings here are free from rebirth. Also called Brahma Loka.

Ruler: Brahma

The realm of great ascetics and tapasvis who have transcended worldly desires through intense penance.

Ruler: Great Rishis

Abode of the sons of Brahma — the Kumaras and other divine beings born from his mind.

Ruler: Sanaka Kumaras

Realm of great saints, Bhrigu and other enlightened souls. Survives partial dissolution of the universe.

Ruler: Bhrigu & Saptarishis

Heaven — the celestial realm of the Devas, ruled by Indra. A temporary reward for good karma.

Ruler: Indra

The atmospheric realm between Earth and Heaven. Home to semi-divine beings, Gandharvas, and spirits.

Ruler: Vayu

The Earth plane — our physical world. The realm of action (karma bhumi) where souls earn merit or demerit.

Ruler: Humans (Karma Bhumi)

Ruled by Bala, son of Maya. A realm of illusion and sensory pleasures.

Ruler: Bala

Realm where Lord Shiva as Hatakeswara resides with celestial beings. Gold flows in rivers here.

Ruler: Hatakeswara (Shiva)

Kingdom of the great demon-king Bali, who was blessed by Lord Vishnu (Vamana avatar). More prosperous than Swarga.

Ruler: King Bali

Ruled by the demon Maya Danava, the master architect. Protected by Shiva's Trishul.

Ruler: Maya Danava

Home to the many-hooded Nagas (serpent beings), children of Kadru.

Ruler: Nagas

Dwelling of the Danavas and Daityas (powerful demon clans), enemies of the Devas.

Ruler: Danavas & Daityas

The lowest realm, home of the serpent king Vasuki and the cosmic serpent Shesha Naga.

Ruler: Vasuki & Shesha Naga