THE TAJ MAHAL PALACE HOTEL ENTRANCE.;This façade hardly needs an introduction, but this view is slightly flummoxing. On closer scrutiny, those familiar with the iconic landmark might recognize this as the harbor view of the hotel. The main entrance faces west, and, according to one theory, was designed that way to allow access to horse carriages. Another rumor is that the architect misinterpreted the plans and designed the hotel facing the wrong way (inland). The Taj Mahal, built at a cost of £250,000, opened in 1903.