There is an American in India, Micah Hanson, who is already living the Vagabondist dream. That is what I want to do, although I don't want to limit myself to the subcontinent.

I could get a flight to Chennai from KL on Air Asia. after my year in Bangkok (or however long it lasts!)

There are return tickets for as low as US$180 from Kuala Lumpur to Chennai.

I could stay at the Suriya International Hotel for just US$24!

If I wanted to live in Chennai for cheaper than that, there are plenty of options. For example, double rooms for 400 Rupees (about US$9!)

And spent a lot of time building up my Indian sites, which will power me to Europe and the next stage of my adventure! This is from India Mike: " I understand perfectly that in a way the cost depends on the lifestyle..but basically, I want to know if you can live a month with around U$ 500 / 600 .."
And mousourik from Kolkata replied: "$500 = Rs.21,000/= $600 = Rs.25,000/= Wow, that's too much! Although I've been to Chennai only once on office tour and that too way back in 1992, but still i can tell u that if u spend that much amount a month, u should be able to stay lavishly. If u use public transport, then half of your estimated budget should do. Let's see what the Chennaians have to say."

phil69 from Berlin reckons 200 Rupees to $20 a day is plenty enough for travelling in India.

On the other hand, siri says: "1. Don't worry much about cost of living, for a decent life style, you need 150-200$ per month, that includes your travel, lodging and food.
"2. Most metros and second rung towns these days have PG (Paying guest) accomodations, for example, in Bangalore, you can get PG from 1500 to upward 5000 INR, some include breakfast and dinner as well. You can always choose not to take food and ask for rebate, most local dailies or (www.admag.com) will post such ads..."