This citadel is the latest WHS of Vietnam. I had to try my best to visit there, because no tour operators or public transportation.
Finally, I decided to go to Ninh Binh town the nearest point to reach the citadel easiest way. From Ninh Binh, I chartered sedan car with driver drove through many bustling villages for 1.30hours approx. The driver never talked to my friend and me. I known later, he was stress out driving to attraction he may not go there before.
The citadel have only a few evidences to prove to be the ancient capital. There are well condition city walls and 4 gates. In the middle is paddy field, lotus ponds and dirt roads.
However, I love there. I've found surrounded villages are commune style housing. Quite and simple countryside with friendly farmers and villagers.
Vietnam is one of destination are talked about rip-off but not here. People seem not used to foreigners but they are welcome.
In the WHS there were only 2 visitors, my friend and I wandering in the walls.
Although it have a few ancient things to explore but its history is interesting. You can read the brief and enjoy photos from my blog.